Former Olympic gold medal-winning captain V. Baskaran backs Craig Fulton's balanced Indian squad to shine at the upcoming Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Former Olympic gold medal-winning captain V. Baskaran believes India is the 'best-prepared team' heading into the Hockey World Cup, which will be held in Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15.
Speaking on the sidelines of the renaming and relaunch of Hockey Tiruvallur as the 12-team Tamil Hockey League, the 75-year-old expressed strong confidence in the squad coached by Craig Fulton, stating that he sees no weak link in the setup.
Baskaran praised the balance of the squad, noting it features two players making their fourth World Cup appearance, six or seven in their third, a couple in their second, and six or seven debutants who have already gained exposure across 20 to 25 international matches, particularly in Europe.
Calling the form of goalkeepers Mohith H.S. and Suraj Karkera the team's 'biggest positive,' Baskaran noted that success will rely on forwards converting chances, the midfield creating opportunities, and defenders avoiding major errors.
Under the tournament format where the top two teams from each of the four pools advance, Baskaran—who led India to gold at the 1980 Moscow Games—highlighted the second round as the crucial test. Addressing India's World Cup drought dating back to Ajit Pal Singh's 1975 victory, Baskaran added that India should beat Wales, while noting Pakistan will be competitive and England will play cautiously.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Hockey. Photo courtesy The Hindu Hockey.