Bhopal: The Indian Women’s team will regroup for the national camp tomorrow for the preparation of the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy scheduled next month at Singapore. The probables include ex-captain Ritu Rani who was removed from the India’s Olympic team due to performance and attitude related issues.
After a not so good outing at the Rio 2016 Olympics, though it was the best platform they rose to, in as many as, 36 years, 29 Indian women’s hockey core probables will regroup at Bhopal camp in a bid to wipe out all frustration of last few outings and inspire performance at the Asian Champions Trophy.
A much needed break of three-weeks will rejuvenate them, and a composition of 3 goal keepers, 7 defenders, 10 midfielders and 9 forwards will toil together in the camp to construct the best possible combination for the tournament. The players are Rajani Etimarpu, Savita, Sonal Minz (all three Goalkeepers);Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, Sunita Lakra, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Hnialum Lal Ruat Feli, Namita Toppo, Rukmani Dodray (all seven defenders); Ritu Rani, Lilima Minz, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Renuka Yadav, Lily Chanu Mayengbam, Nikki Pradhan, Narinder Kaur, Lalhlunmawii, Navdeep Kaur (all ten midfielders); Rani, Poonam Rani, Vandana Katariya, Anuradha Devi Thockchom, Preeti Dubey, Sonika, Anupa Barla, Jyoti Gupta, Punam Barla (all 7 forwards).
Speaking about the Olympic performance of Indian team, Chief Coach Neil Hawgood said, “The Olympics was a major exposure for the players and they know now what it takes to be in the top league and play at the highest level. We take this as a positive learning and will work towards improving on our basics and further develop the game ahead of what promises to be a grueling season for the team.”
Further added Hawgood about the camp and Asian Champions Trophy,” The girls will come back fresh from a three week break and will be vying to play some good hockey.”
The camp will allow the women to regroup and hone their skills and up their game before the tournament starting on 29 October 2016 in Singapore. India has a long season ahead as this tournament will be followed by the Australia tour in November.