The recent 5-match Test series in Australia has resulted in disappointment for the Indian men’s hockey team and their supporters, as they were defeated in all matches by Australia. The team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, conceded a total of 16 goals while only scoring 7, raising concerns about their preparedness for the forthcoming Paris Olympics.
Former India head coach MP Ganesh, a medallist at the 1972 Munich Olympics, shared his exclusive insights with myKhel, emphasising the necessity for improved planning in preparation for the Paris Olympics. Ganesh stressed that India is not currently adequately prepared for the upcoming games and proposed that 50% of the team for the next Olympics should consist of junior players.
Ganesh also expressed apprehension regarding the lack of rotation in the squad for international trips, underscoring the importance of meticulous planning and the involvement of younger players. He highlighted the deficiency in the team’s current planning and deemed the performance in the recent series as unacceptable.
As the Paris Olympics approach, India’s participation in the FIH Pro League against Argentina, Belgium, Germany, and Great Britain is pivotal for their training. Nonetheless, MP Ganesh expressed doubts about the feasibility of altering the team’s strategy at such a late stage, emphasizing the team’s urgent need for comprehensive preparation.
When discussing the challenges of competing against Australia, Ganesh remained optimistic, asserting that it is feasible for Team India to surpass the Aussies, referencing previous successful encounters between India and Australia in various tournaments.
As the Indian men’s hockey team regroups and learns from their errors, the focus must now shift to essential self-improvement and a more resolute performance at the Paris Olympics.
As India’s journey to the Olympics advances, the importance of improved planning, the inclusion of younger players, and a revised strategy becomes increasingly conspicuous. The recent setbacks suffered by the team serve as a reminder that immediate action and meticulous deliberation are imperative to secure a more favourable outcome at the Paris Olympics.