Indian goalkeepers keep faith in their defence line

Indian goalkeepers P.R. Sreejesh and Savita have full faith in the defence line of the respective men's and women's hockey teams here at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The men's and women's teams have worked hard on their defensive skills for the Games.

Sreejesh, who has 100 international caps, showcased brilliant goalkeeping during the World Cup held at The Hague last month while women's team goalkeeper Savita (79 caps) impressed many during the recently concluded Malaysian Tour.

Sreejesh, who is also the vice-captain, said he was confident of the defence line-up with the likes of Gurbaj Singh and V. Raghunath.

"On any given day they will give a tough time to the opponents forwards. I am looking at both of them to help better my performance during the Games. With Gurbaj's speed to match and Raghunath's sharp and strategic play, the opponents will not have an easy day with us. I am looking at continuing my World Cup form and I will yet again give my best," said Sreejesh.

Savita said the women team's key is the combination of experienced and young players.

"We are a well balanced side in the tournament. Our defence shield, with collective experiences of Deepika and Kirandeep, has grown only stronger. I am sure the learning and skills from the past tournaments will help the team to surpass our opponents in the tournament with flying colours," she said.

The women's team will start their campaign against Canada here Thursday while the men's will face Wales the next day.