The Indian junior hockey team’s preparations for next year’s World Cup at home will get under way at the upcoming 2nd Sultan Johor Cup, and coach Baljit Singh Saini was upbeat ahead of the team’s departure for Malaysia.
Saini, who took over last year, said the main target was the quadrennial event in December 2013.
“Our main aim is definitely the World Cup in 2013. The Johor Cup event is the best platform to judge where we stand today as teams like Germany, Australia and Pakistan will be participating. It will be a tough tournament for sure,” Saini was quoted as saying.
Midfielder Manpreet Singh, who was part of the India senior squad at the London Olympics, will lead the 18-member junior team in the November 11 to 18 tournament. India finished fourth in the inaugural edition of the tournament.
“Rather than winning, we want to analyse our strategies and strengths. We want to find our weaknesses in respect to the World Cup,” said the twice Olympian.
The team will begin their campaign against Australia and senior team coach Michael Nobbs has helped in preparations.
“We have watched many videos of the Pakistan and Malaysian junior teams but had none of the Australians and the Kiwis. Nobbs has given us some tips about the Australian style of play,” Saini said.
The coach added that the players were confident and well prepared.
“Four of my players are part of the senior team which will tour Australia for the Super Series and the Champions Trophy. Their selection in the senior team has enhanced their confidence. The others are also equally good and confident.”
Players who are also members of the senior team are skipper Manpreet Singh, midfielder Kothajit Singh and forwards Akashdeep Singh and Gurmail Singh.