Last Updated: December 16, 2022, 18:23 IST
Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and hockey legends (Twitter)
Sports Minister Anurag Thakur is assured India will end on the rostrum on the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup
Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Friday mentioned he’s assured about India ending on the rostrum in subsequent month’s FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, saying the new-found spirit and self perception will work wonders for the hosts in marque match.
The World Cup can be collectively hosted by Bhubaneswar and Rourkela from January 13 to 29 subsequent yr.
“India is absolutely ready and able to take up the problem from all different 15 groups. I really feel India is able to grow to be world champion as soon as once more. I’m positive the best way the Indian group is getting ready, with the brand new spirit and self perception, we’re going to do extraordinarily effectively within the World Cup and in Paris Olympics,” Thakur told reporters after unveiling the World Cup trophy.
India last won the World Cup 47 years ago in the 1975 edition in Kuala Lumpur.
“I am happy and delighted to unveil the prestigious trophy and I am sure we are going to see a great tournament,” Thakur mentioned.
“India will host the match in the very best method and I’ve full religion that just like the 1975 World Cup, our Indian group will do every part potential to win the 2023 World Cup in order that the brand new technology remembers the achievement.”
FIFA World Cup 2022 Points Table | FIFA World Cup 2022 Schedule | FIFA World Cup 2022 Results | FIFA World Cup 2022 Golden Boot
Zafar Iqbal, a member of the 1980 Olympic gold medallist team, said India are one of the favourites to lift the trophy.
“We have now got into the upper level and there is no doubt about that. We have the power and skills to take on the powerful Germany, Australia, Belgium and Netherlands. The four-five top teams are equally good. India has made a mark in the Olympics by winning the bronze medal. India has the potential to win the trophy,” Iqbal instructed PTI.
The former India centre ahead added: “Yes I’m positive and assured that India have an opportunity to complete on the rostrum. If the gamers play as a unit really feel they’re able to doing it, they are going to certainly attain the rostrum We have excellent brief nook specialists and subject aim scorers.”
Ajitpal Singh, captain of 1975 World Cup-winning side, said there were no clear favourites for the World Cup.
“I cannot say at this stage who is favourite. India has a good chance but they will have to play very well. There are very strong teams in the tournament and I wish the Indian side all the very best. They have to put their best foot forward.”
His teammate Ashok Kumar mentioned India have the momentum and appears very strong for the time being.
“Why not? I’m positive India can be among the many high three. They have gotten the momentum. The expertise of successful a medal on the Olympics is big and has fulled Indian group spirit. India has the group to excel,” he mentioned.
Read all of the Latest Sports News right here
