Indian women’s hockey team gears up for crucial Spain tour ahead of Asian Games – Times of India
The Indian team is set to compete in the 100th Anniversary Spanish Hockey Federation-International Tournament from July 25 to 30, facing tough opponents including South Africa, England, and hosts Spain.
Savita highlighted the significance of the tournament, saying, “It will be a crucial tournament for us as it will enable us to pinpoint the areas that demand immediate attention and require collective effort to improve as a team.”
“We will be playing against some of the top-notch teams in the tournament, so, in a way, it will be a litmus test for us ahead of the Asian Games,” she further added.
The Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Hangzhou in September-October, hold great importance for the Indian team as a gold-medal finish would secure a direct qualification for the Paris Olympics in the following year.
Savita emphasised the competition for spots in the Asian Games squad, saying, “Every player will have to prove her mettle in every training session and match to make it to the squad for the Asian Games.”
With talented junior players, including those from the recently victorious women’s junior Asia Cup team, eyeing a place in the senior team, Savita believes healthy competition will make the side more formidable.
The ongoing national coaching camp in Bengaluru is focused on refining the structure and tactics of the team ahead of the Asian Games. Savita mentioned, “We are aware of what our coach expects from us as a team, and that definitely makes our task easier.”
Reflecting on the team’s recent tour of Australia, Savita acknowledged the initial challenges the team faced but highlighted their resilience and unity.
“We excel in playing collectively and fighting together, making it a formidable challenge for any opponent to defeat us, and that will be our biggest strength in the Asian Games,” she said.
The Indian women’s hockey team is determined to make a strong impact in the upcoming tour of Spain, utilising it as a stepping stone towards their goal of securing a direct qualification for the Paris Olympics. With the Asian Games on the horizon, the team is focused on refining their skills and tactics, while the junior players are eager to showcase their abilities and earn a place in the squad.
(With inputs from PTI)
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