NEW DELHI Chief coach Craig Fulton and the Hockey India (HI) choice committee have gone in for a tried and examined 16-member squad for the Paris Olympics that might be led by Harmanpreet Singh.
There are solely a few surprises, the principle one being the selection of Sanjay because the penalty nook (PC) specialist alongside Harmanpreet rather than Jugraj Singh. The different notable exclusion is Nilakanta Sharma, who was within the 2021 Tokyo squad that gained bronze to finish a 41-year watch for an Olympic hockey medal. He has been changed by Rajkumar Pal within the midfield.
Fulton has chosen the skilled PR Sreejesh within the aim and he might be enjoying in his fourth Olympics. He bought the vote over Krishan Bahadur Pathak and Suraj Karkera.
The defence contains India’s major drag-flicker Harmanpreet, who is ready to play his third Olympics – having debuted because the youngest member of the Indian squad at 2016 Rio – the skilful Jarmanpreet Singh, first-rusher Amit Rohidas, Sumit and Sanjay.
India’s midfield might be manned by Manpreet Singh, 32, who captained the group to a historic bronze three years in the past in Tokyo and might be enjoying his fourth Olympics. The thrilling Rajkumar Pal, Shamsher Singh, vice-captain Hardik Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad are the opposite midfielders.
The RP Singh-headed choice committee has gone for expertise within the ahead line – Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Mandeep Singh and Gurjant Singh.
“The selection process for the Paris Olympics was incredibly competitive due to the depth of talent in our ranks. I am confident every player chosen will bring their best to Paris,” mentioned Fulton.
“Each player selected has demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication and resilience throughout our rigorous preparation phase. Our journey has been marked by unwavering commitment to excellence and a collective drive to elevate Indian hockey on the world stage.”
Pathak, Nilakanta and Jugraj Singh have been named as alternates, who can come into the squad solely as an damage substitute for the July 26-August 11 event. Jarmanpreet, Sanjay, Raj Kumar, Abhishek and Sukhjeet will make their Olympic debuts.
The core probables to overlook out are goalkeeper Karkera, defender Amir Ali, midfielders Vishnukant Singh, Akashdeep Singh and Mohammed Raheel Mouseen and forwards Dilpreet Singh, Boby Singh Dhami and Araijeet Singh Hundal.
“This squad embodies a perfect blend of experienced players and promising young talents, giving us the versatility and energy required to tackle the challenges ahead. Our focus has been on building a cohesive team that can adapt to different playing styles and situations, and I believe we have achieved that,” South African Fulton mentioned.
“As we head to Paris, our goal is clear – to play with heart, skill and determination. We are prepared to face the world’s best teams and strive for the highest podium. This squad is ready to seize the opportunity and bring glory to India. We are confident in our abilities and excited about the journey ahead.”
India are in Pool B with defending champions Belgium, Australia, Argentina, New Zealand and Ireland. Pool A includes world No.1 Netherlands, world champions Germany, Great Britain, Spain, South Africa and hosts France. The high 4 from every group will advance to the quarter-finals.
India will start their marketing campaign on July 27 towards New Zealand, adopted by video games towards Argentina (July 29), Ireland (July 30), Belgium (August 1) and Australia (July 2).
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
