Youngsters ready for the challenge
India will field as many as three debutants in the upcoming Asia Cup men’s hockey tournament in Ipoh, Malaysia — a qualifying event for the 2014 World Cup.
Young Amit Rohidas will man the defence along with seasoned campaigners Rupinderpal Singh and V.R. Raghunath, while forwards Ramandeep Singh and Nikkin Thimmaiah are the other new faces in the 18-member squad.
The 20-year-old Ramandeep, who had given up hope of representing the country after his participation in the Indian Hockey Federation-backed World Series Hockey two years ago, is ready for the crucial event.
“The Asia Cup is a great opportunity for me,” said Ramandeep on Sunday. “Even though this chance has come because of injuries to senior members, we (the juniors) know that we will have to take up the responsibility.
“The WSH was a mistake and I am glad to be playing for the country now.”
Ramandeep, who plays for Punjab and Sind Bank, said the team have prepared well under interim coach Roelant Oltmans.
“The Asia Cup is a test for us. We need to qualify for the World Cup, and besides it gives us youngsters a chance to cement our places in the senior squad.”
Ramandeep will be joined in the attack by Nikkin, who shone for Karnataka during the recent national championships in Pune. Young Mandeep Singh, Malak Singh and Nithin Thimmaiah complete the line-up.
Rohidas new face in defence
Rohidas had attracted eyeballs when he fetched $29,000, five times higher than his base price of $5,600 at the Hockey India League players’ auction last year. Till then, not many had heard of the young defender from Sundergarh, Odisha.
At a time when India struggling with their defence, Rohidas — who is also a drag-flicker — adds to the options.
“He is a promising youngster and it is good to have him in the team,” says Rupinderpal. “He did well during the training camp and has been a regular member of the junior team too. Besides a strong defence, he is also a good drag-flicker.”
Said Rohidas, “I have learnt a lot during my interactions with seniors, and am hoping to use it to the optimum in the Asia Cup. I am focused on the job.”
The squad will be led by midfielder Sardar Singh, while goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh will be the vice-captain.
Team: P.R. Sreejesh, P.T. Rao, V.R. Raghunath, Rupinderpal Singh, Amit Rohidas, Kothajit Singh, Birendra Lakra, Gurmail Singh, Sardar Singh (captain), Manpreet Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Dharamvir Singh, S.K. Uthappa, Ramandeep Singh, Nithin Thimmaiah, Mandeep Singh, Malak Singh, Nikkin Thimmaiah
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