Red-hot India square off against South Korea in Asia Cup Super 4s

DHAKA: An unbeaten India would start as overwhelming favourites against an under-performing but dangerous South Korea in their first match of the Super 4 stage in the 10th Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Wednesday.

India, who finished the pool stages with an all-win record, looked the most dominating team in the tournament so far in all aspects of the game.

Korea, on the other hand, were far from impressive as they finished second in Pool B behind the ever-improving Malaysia.

Playing under a new chief coach Sjoerd Marijne, the Indi- ans rose to the occasion and have displayed beautiful one-touch hockey, which they are known for.

The Indian strike force comprising Ramandeep Singh, Akashdeep Singh, Lalit Upadahay and Chinglensana Singh has been the most impressive, scoring field goals at will with their deft stick work.

The Indian midfield has been controlled well by talismanic Sardar Singh in the company of skipper Manpreet Singh.

The backline, too, have shown bright under the watchful guard of Amit Rohidas, Harmanpreet Singh and young Dipsan Tirkey.

What would be a matter of concern for Marijne is the penalty corner conversion rate even though Harmanpreet has been on target on a few occasions.

But going by India’s performance so far — 5-1 victory over Japan, 7-0 thrashing of Bangladesh and 3-1 win over arch-rivals Pakistan — they are expected to prevail over Korea with consummate ease.

In terms of world rankings as well, the Indians start as favourites. While India are placed sixth in the world, Korea occupy the 13th spot. Full story @ timesofoman.com/sports