With Oly preparation in mind, Indian eves leave for NZ

An positive start to their Rio Olympics preparation would be key on their agenda when the Indian women's hockey team launches its campaign in the the Hawke's Bay Cup in Hastings, New Zealand on April 2.
Going into the tournament, there will be two things paramount on the minds on the team's think-tank -- fitness and converting short corners into goal.
These are the two key areas that chief coach Neil Hawgood, his coaching staff and senior members of the squad, have singled out for special attention during the recent training and preparatory camp.
If India, placed 13th in the world rankings, are to outplay Black Sticks, ranked fourth, and China a place behind, the Indian eves would need to sustain their intensity for the entire duration of the match. Even Ireland, which is ranked below India, is capable of springing a surprise.

"In the past we have lost some crucial matches due to fitness and not being able to convert penalty corners. In this camp we have been paying extra attention to these two critical aspects. In fact, you can say that our chief coach Neil Hawgood is obsessive about improving the fitness levels of those in the camp," said Deepika, who will lead the Indian team in the Hawke's Bay Cup in the absence of Ritu Rani.
"In modern hockey, converting penalty corners makes a huge difference between winning and losing. We have to learn from the mistakes of the past and ensure they are not repeated.