SV Sunil back in Cup fold as core group named
NEW DELHI: India’s countdown to the hockey World Cup commenced on Wednesday with the announcement of 34 probables, who will have their final chance to impress the selectors during the national camp which begins in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
The most notable inclusion in the list is SV Sunil, who had injured his knee ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy, where India and Pakistan were declared joint winners. Sunil’s inclusion has enhanced his chances of playing the November 28-December 16 event. Forward Ramandeep Singh, who underwent a knee surgery after sustaining an injury during the Champions Trophy in June, will rejoin the camp along with defenders Rupinder Pal Singh and Birendra Lakra.
The camp, which concludes on November 23, will help coach Harendra Singh select the final 18 for the World Cup. “We had trained in Bhubaneswar before the Asian Champions Trophy to get used to the conditions. Playing on the newly-laid turf at the Kalinga Stadium again before the World Cup will give us a good chance to prepare and analyse the most effective tactics and style of play, which can be used during the tournament,” said Harendra. “It is also crucial that we learn from our mistakes from previous tournaments and work
on minimising errors throughout the three areas of attack, midfield and defence. It is now time for all the core group players to step up and show what they can bring to the table.”
India will start their campaign vs South Africa on November 28.
“Now is the most critical time as we look to work on the areas which need improvement. The camp will give all players the chance to show what edge they can provide,” said the coach.