Last Updated: January 07, 2023, 13:33 IST
Australian hockey staff (Twitter)
Australia coach Colin Batch expressed optimism, saying they’ve sturdy fundamentals to win the FIH World Cup this time round
Three-time champions and world no.1 Australia are assured of reclaiming the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup to be collectively hosted by Bhubaneswar and Rourkela from January 13 to 29.
Australia final received the title in 2014 at The Hague, Netherlands the place they defended their crown.
In the final World Cup, Australia had settled for a bronze medal.
“Our gamers are actually excited to be right here and now we have large ambitions within the event,” Australia captain Eddie Ockenden said after arriving here.
“We want to do well and have confidence that we will be able to win the title. Our team has a lot of experience and it will be really crucial for us.”
Australia, who start their marketing campaign towards France right here on January 13, had received their first title in 1986 defeating the hosts England.
Australia coach Colin Batch too expressed optimism, saying they’ve sturdy fundamentals to win the title this time round.
“We have a extremely good staff and our gamers are prolific aim scorers which is basically essential because it lets you win matches.
“At the identical time, our defence can also be actually good and we regularly handle to limit the opposition from scoring. So, our fundamentals are sturdy and that makes us a extremely good aspect,” he said.
Batch said they are eager to take on hosts India in the knockout stages of the tournament if everything goes according to plan.
“Our players are also excited to face India as they are a totally different side at home. They play good hockey at home and get extra motivation from the crowd. It will be tough to beat India if we play against them.”
England, who’re positioned alongside India, Spain and Wales in Pool D, additionally arrived right here on Friday for the marquee occasion.
England, whose greatest end within the event is a silver medal within the 1986 version, will open their marketing campaign towards Wales on January 13 in Rourkela.
After that, England will tackle India January 15 in Rourkela, earlier than transferring again to Bhubaneswar, the place they finish their group-stage on January 19 towards Spain.
“I feel we’re a contender for the title. There is a number of perception in our camp as everyone seems to be assured about their talents and now we have additionally educated effectively in the previous few months.
“We went on many excursions and performed some high groups just like the Netherlands and Argentina which has made us prepared,” said England captain David Ames.
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(This story has not been edited by News18 workers and is printed from a syndicated news company feed)
