The Netherlands men’s hockey team, currently ranked as the top team globally, has arrived at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, India, in preparation for the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 matches. The esteemed league is slated to occur at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar from February 10 to 16, before relocating to the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela for matches from February 19 to 25.
As part of the India leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 (Men), national teams from Ireland, The Netherlands, India, Spain, and Australia will compete in matches held in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela. The Netherlands is set to compete against Ireland on February 10, followed by an eagerly anticipated match against the host country, India, on February 11. Subsequent matches will see the Netherlands facing off against Spain on February 13 and Australia on February 16 before proceeding to Rourkela.
In a statement made by the captain of the Netherlands’ team, Thierry Brinkman expressed confidence in their preparations, highlighting the team’s rigorous training sessions and camaraderie. Expressing excitement for the upcoming campaign, Brinkman affirmed their enthusiasm to compete.
When asked about the most formidable opponents on the tour, Brinkman acknowledged Australia as potentially challenging rivals. Additionally, facing India in their home stadiums of Bhubaneswar and Rourkela presents a formidable challenge. He emphasized the importance of testing themselves against such strong teams ahead of the Paris Olympics 2024, noting the significance of the upcoming tournament for the team.
With the arrival of the Netherlands men’s hockey team in India, anticipation is high for the exhilarating matches set to unfold at the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24. As they prepare to go head-to-head with formidable opponents, all eyes will be on the Bhubaneswar and Rourkela stadiums as the players demonstrate their exceptional skill and sportsmanship.