Hockey team need to address shortcomings before WC: Olympians

The hockey fraternity today hailed Indian team's qualification for the next year's World Cup but cautioned that the side still need improvement in all areas to be a strong contender at The Hague, Netherlands.
Olympians Zafar Iqbal, Ajit Pal Singh and Vasudevan Baskaran were all effusive in their praise for the team's inspiring performance in the ongoing Asia Cup, where they will lock horns against South Korea in the final tomorrow but also spelt out key challenges facing the relatively young Indian side.
"I feel happy for the team as their qualification will rebuild the Indian hockey history. But there are key issues engulfing the team and we need to quickly address them with not much time left for the World Cup. These include play consistent and controlled hockey, improve tactical skills, improve fitness level," Baskaran told PTI.

"I believe we are as good as the top teams in the world. We are technically and skill wise sound but we also need to work on our defence and stop playing waiting game," he added.
Virtually assured of a World Cup berth, India defeated hosts Malaysia 2-0 last night to enter the final of the 9th Asia Cup. The Koreans have already qualified for the World Cup while India and Malaysia have all but qualified for the quadrennial event as the first and second reserves.
Another legendary hockey player, Zafar Iqbal said playing in the World Cup is entirely different from playing in the Asian circuit.

"The boys need to work hard on their attack and defence. If you don't play in the big tournaments, it would not going to help your game. India should look to win the World Cup rather than just taking part. Playing there is an altogether different proposition but I believe with experienced players joining back the team, it will be a good mix," said Iqbal.