The news from the hockey field has been particularly good for India in most recent times. A victory in the final of the Asian Games against Asian arch-rival Pakistan has been followed in quick succession by a series win over world champion Australia Down Under.
The 3-1 series win in Australia came after India were beaten 4-0 in the opening game, the hat-trick of wins confirming that the performances were no flash in the pan. Is India ready now to rub shoulders with the best teams on the big stage?
Before we jump the gun, a word of caution as the Australians rested as many as 13 seniors. Even then, it was a good Indian performance because Indian teams, like wine, do not as a rule travel very well. Any judgement on Team India’s vast improvement must be made only after the Champions Trophy next month.
However, what is pleasing is that some consistency is being displayed not only in attacking play but also in sound defensive formations in which the goal-keeper is playing a major role.
Former chief coach Michael Nobbs keeps stressing that Indian hockey players must not dwell in the past, reminiscing about artistic stick work. Modern hockey is about good trapping skills and taking quick shots at goal.
Sustained modern training methods over the last four years or so seem to be paying off. It would be nice to believe India will be going to the Rio Olympics with a medal-winning chance. The indications are that Indian hockey has turned the corner.
