"Every chance that you get to play against international opponents, you should should embrace it and take seriously," Van Ass told PTI on the eve of his side's tournament opener against South Korea at the Azlan Shah Stadium, here tomorrow.
"The good part is we have already qualified for the Olympics. From that account, there is no pressure, but it is very important tournament for us keeping in mind the preparation for the Olympics, next year.
Van Ass, who replaced Australian Terry Walsh as India's chief coach barely three weeks ago, said the Azlan Shah Cup will give his side a chance to test themselves against higher-ranked opponents.
"There are three teams who are ranked higher than us. So it is a very nice opportunity for us to see how we play against those teams. Do we really have a chance? Is it possible for us to fix problems that arise? For me, that is going to be valuable information," he said.
"I don't feel any kind of pressure. Pressure is something people create. I am totally in control of the team. I do just what I think we have to do," he said.
Stating that world champions and title holders Australia is the team to beat in this tournament, Van Ass warned his opponents not to underestimate India.
"Australia obviously, may be New Zealand (are favourites) but don't forget us," the India coach said.