Indian hockey eves start preparations for HWL Round 2

Continuing their build up for the impending Hockey World League (HWL) Round 2, the Indian women's team started its practice on Monday and was seen sweating it out at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here.

Placed in Pool A for the International Hockey Federation (FIH) league all set to begin from March 7, the Indian eves looked focussed and were seen fine-tuning their skills in order to give a hard time to the opponents.

They will meet Ghana on the inaugural day of the tournament which serves as a part of the qualifiers for the Olympics.

The much gritty squad led by centre-half Ritu Rani is keen to bring in the required team coordination on field. They aim to take advantage of their strengths by incorporating all the tactics and strategies.

"We are excited on playing against Ghana in the opening match as it will be the first time that we will be playing against them. The team is confident with the recent victory against Germany and Spain in Valencia which has certainly motivated us to put up a great show in the league ahead," Ritu said.

"Our sole target is to perform well and get into Round 3 in order to get a step closer to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics."