India look to put best foot forward at Azlan Shah hockey

Runners-up at the last edition, India would look to go one step further as they start their campaign in the 26th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup with a game against Great Britain on Saturday. India lost to nine-time champions Australia in last year’s final and Harmanpreet Singh played a crucial role in the team’s success.

Making his senior India team debut at Ipoh last season, Harmanpreet impressed one and all as he accompanied seasoned defenders Rupinderpal Singh and VR Raghunath to the Champions Trophy in London and then to the Olympics within four months.

India would be hoping that he will be a big inspiration to three uncapped players in this tournament. Like Harmanpreet, midfielder Harpreet Singh, who led the Junior World Cup champion side, and striker Mandeep Singh have in the past earned their senior grade spurs through the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

Making their maiden journey with the national squad now are defender Gurinder Singh and the midfield duo of Sumit and Manpreet Singh Junior. “The script of Harmanpreet’s graduation to the senior team is a big inspiration to follow for the youngsters who have come here,” Oltmans said on the eve of the opening match.

“We also have many experienced players who form the core of the squad and ensure that the youngsters do not come under intense pressure. We’ll be trying out new combinations and forma tions as we start the year that leads to important tournaments like the Asia Cup and the World League Finals,” said Oltmans.

Having climbed to No. 6 in the world rankings, India go into the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to pre pare a team that can give an impressive performance at the World League Semifinals in Lon don in June.