India hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh revealed that his side is ready to test multiple combinations during their two-match bilateral series against Germany, aiming to prepare for upcoming major tournaments. Despite a 2-0 loss to Germany in their first match on October 23, both Harmanpreet and coach Craig Fulton emphasised that the defeat would not derail their plans.
One notable aspect of the defeat for India in New Delhi, was the frequent use of Varun Kumar and Sanjay Rana for drag-flicks, a role typically reserved for skipper Harmanpreet Singh. This sparked speculation amongst fans about whether these players are being groomed as long-term replacements for Harmanpreet. Both Fulton and Singh confirmed after the match that the strategy was part of their experimental approach.
“This is a good opportunity for us. These are test games and we need to try these plans out and perfect them before a major tournament,” Harmanpreet said.
Harmanpreet also heaped praise on his other teammate, Vivek Kumar Sagar, who was arguably India’s best player against Germany on Wednesday. The India skipper revealed how the side puts a lot of faith on Vivek’s abilities, and will do the same in the major tournaments to come.
“He is quite experienced, just looks young. He has played with us in a lot of major tournaments for quite some time, and hopefully he performs even better in the match tomorrow and help us win,” Harmanpreet added.
In the first of the two-Test series against Germany, India suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat on home soil in New Delhi. The Indian side missed eight penalty corners and even saw captain Harmanpreet Singh’s penalty stroke saved by the opposition. Germany, missing key players such as Gonzalo Peillat and Christopher R¼hr, fielded a team comprised of junior World Champions and players from their Olympic silver-medal squad.
Despite the loss, the Indian team remains focused on their preparation and is expected to implement further team changes in their second match against Germany on October 24. Harmanpreet’s squad is determined to make a comeback on home soil, with many of the same experimental lineups likely to feature once again.
The series is viewed as an opportunity for the Indian team to refine their strategies and strengthen their roster ahead of future international challenges, showcasing the squad’s depth and versatility.