Indian men’s hockey team flattered to deceive when they were knocked out in the crossover game against New Zealand in the FIH Hockey World Cup which was held in Odisha. Being the host nation the expectations were really high but India really couldn’t stand up to the task and finished as one of the worst host performances.
Looking forward, the Indian team will be facing Germany and Australia at the Birsa Munda Stadium in Rourkela between 10th to 15 March. With new head coach Craig Fulton in place, the Indian team will be looking for a fresh start post the World Cup debacle.
Speaking about changes, Hardik Singh has replaced Amit Rohidas as the new vice captain for Inida. Hardik was one of the only bright lights in the World Cup and it was his injury that hindered India’s journey in the tournament.
So he was rewarded with the vice-captain’s position and speaking about it Hardik shared that he never thought that he would be vice-captain of the Indian team and is looking to carry the values that were carried by previous captains like Manpreet Singh, PR Sreejesh and collectively will work with skipper Harmanpreet Singh for the welfare of the team.
“I am feeling very and it is quite unbelievable. I never thought that I will become vice-captain and it is a very big thing for me. I will like to carry the values of my previous captains like Manpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh along with my captain Harmanpreet Singh.”
“I will make sure to share my experience with new players and guide them which will be important for the team,” he added.
India finished 9th in the World Cup as they were knocked out in the crossovers against New Zealand. Hardik Singh was India’s best player in the first two matches before he got injured and missed the clash against Wales. Hardik shared that he too was disappointed but also wants the fans to stay patient as the team will surely bounce back with plenty of important tournaments coming up.
“The loss was very tough for us. Especially for me, as this is the second time I was part of the World Cup squad and we finished out of the top four. But as it said that Rome was not built in one day, I believe that we will do well in upcoming FIH Pro League and Asian games,” the Indian midfielder added.
India will play Germany and Australia and in this leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League under David John as interim coach. Craig Fulton who has been announced as the new head coach of the team will takeover from the next leg of the Pro League.
