Former hockey player V R Raghunath believes that the present Indian team boasts of a world-class defensive line-up and with quality drag-flickers within the ranks, the side can challenge the world’s best during next year’s Tokyo Olympics.
Raghunath, who was a lethal flicker in his playing days, said having four penalty corner specialists within the current set-up augurs well for the eight-time champions within the run up to the Tokyo Olympics, postponed to next year thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“They are very experienced and therefore the current set of defenders have about 50-80 caps together. They know one another alright and that i don’t see them having any problems even once they are put during a tough match-situation against any top team within the world,” said Raghunath.
“Having two top dragflickers who can play full match is a plus for India. Both Harmanpreet (Singh) and Rupinder (Pal Singh) are equally good and that they have completely different execution and qualities. Having various options and combinations in drag flick is usually good.
“Plus, India has good options in Varun Kumar and Amit Rohidas who are often great support when one among the 2 top flickers are having a rough day,” he added.
The 31-year-old former defender is of the view that the Indian team should make a clean slate in its Olympic preparations following a forced break thanks to the pandemic.
“I think the team must take this era as a 1 year countdown, and forget everything that’s happened within the last 6-8 months. it’s time to start out afresh,” he said.
“The six-week break was ideal for the players to return to the national camp feeling fresh. The Indian team’s fitness is premium and that they will still repose on this plus point subsequent one year but having the proper mindset in their approach and staying mentally positive are going to be vital .”
Raghunath emphasised on the necessity for players to be mentally strong in these trying times.
“How the players cope mentally during this new scenario, how they approach a day mentally and once they begin training and playing matches, how they’re going to deal with the pressure and therefore the results will matter tons ,” he said.
