New Delhi: During the inaugural Hockey India League last year, former national coach and commentator Cedric D’Souza couldn’t help but marvel at the brand of hockey that the Delhi Waveriders were putting on display. The Sardar Singh-led team did not lose a single game in the month-long tournament, barring the final to eventual winners Ranchi Rhinos.
For D’Souza, who has given up commentary duties and will now be seen in the Waveriders’ dugout coaching the talented side, it is a “great opportunity and responsibility”. D’Souza replaces coach A.K. Bansal, who will join new entrants Kalinga Lancers.
On Saturday, the new-look Delhi Waveriders began their preparations for HIL Season 2, that kicks off on January 25. Delhi face Punjab Warriors in the opening game at the newly-opened Mohali Stadium.
“I know there are a lot of expectations given this team’s reputation,” said D’Souza in a chat with this paper. “But one has to remember it is a different season and a different team.
“We are trying to do a lot of things, and the first of that begins with a watertight defence. This is one area that we are going to be extremely focused on, besides penalty corner conversions.
“In such leagues, it is very important for the players to get together and understand each other. The bonding off and on the field among the overseas and the Indian players is what often leads to a team’s success, and we want to be spot on with that.
“Discipline is another aspect that will be high on agenda.”
Arjun, Rajpal, Guri new signings
Plagued by injuries to key strikers Gurvinder Singh Chandi (ruled out with an ankle injury), Danish Mujtaba and Akashdeep Singh (both doubtful starters), the Waveriders have signed up former India forwards Arjun Halappa and Rajpal Singh, besides Air India goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Guri. “That was a last-minute decision,” said D’Souza. “We had a few injuries and the decision was taken keeping in mind the structure and requirement of the team.”
Among the overseas players, German goalkeeper Nicolas Jacobi — the team’s go-to-man in the last edition — will join a week after the start of the league.
Holland’s Tim Jenniskens and German striker Oscar Deecke will be missing as they weren’t given permission by their respective federations, keeping in mind the World Cup in six month’s time.
Edwards, White new faces
D’Souza said the team would try to retain their ability to play free-flowing hockey and an attacking display — highlights of their last year’s campaign.
“We are working on combinations and game plans. It is important that the game plan trickles down to the players and reflects on the field. We have several new faces and the players will need to do combine well.”
The Australian duo of Jason Wilson (forward) and Tristan White (defender) are among the new signings, besides New Zealand defender Steven Edwards.
South African Timothy Drummond will be the new face in the midfield, while striker Armaan Qureshi too joins their ranks.
