The Indian men's hockey team is now focused on the Olympics in Paris after winning a gold medal at the Asian Games.
The Indian men’s hockey squad has embarked on a trip to Australia for a five-match series starting April 6, a vital step in their preparations for the Paris Olympics in late July to early August. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the team set off for Australia on Monday evening. They’ve shown strong form lately, with three victories in four games at the FIH Pro League in Bhubaneswar. Following the initial match on April 6, games are scheduled for the 7th, 10th, 12th, and 13th.
Hockey India has highlighted the importance of this series in a press statement, noting it as a chance for the team to advance their play and address areas needing improvement before the Paris Olympics. Captain Harmanpreet conveyed a sense of enthusiasm and resolve ahead of the departure. He remarked on the series’ value in measuring the team’s capabilities and recognizing aspects that require work as they gear up for the Olympics.
Vice-captain Hardik Singh echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the tour’s importance. He spoke of the squad’s diligent efforts to perfect their techniques and tactics, expressing confidence in their preparedness. Singh noted the team’s dedication to excel on the field and their intention to bring honor to the nation through their performances.
Goalkeepers: PR Sreejesh, Suraj Karkera, Krishan Bahadur Pathak
Defenders: Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit, Amir Ali, Harmanpreet Singh (C), Jarmanpreet Singh
Midfielders: Vivek Sagar Prasad, Shamsher Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Rajkumar Pal, Vishnukant Singh, Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh (VC).
Forwards: Mohammed Raheel Mouseen, Boby Singh Dhami, Araijeet Singh Hundal, Akashdeep Singh, Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Abhishek, Dilpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Gurjant Singh.
Following their triumph at the Asian Games, the Indian men’s hockey team is now eyeing Olympic glory in Paris. With a bronze medal from Tokyo 2020 in their pocket, team captain Harmanpreet Singh is eager to land that coveted Olympic gold. He emphasizes the need for the team to bolster their defense. During a brief time in Delhi, before they jetted off to Australia for a Test series, the players shared their intensive training routines and preparations.
Harmanpreet, in an interview, mentioned that the squad has turned its attention towards the upcoming Olympics to clinch the top spot, recognizing the immense challenge and significance of the event. He highlighted their efforts to enhance scoring opportunities by generating more penalty corners and strengthening their defense.
He also mentioned the need for better physicality in receiving and tackling. The 27-year-old drag flick specialist acknowledged the importance of incorporating variety into his skills to outsmart opponents at the Olympics, considering that teams will be keenly observing and aiming to counter their tactics. Harmanpreet underscored the importance of unpredictable moves to successfully score and secure victories.
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