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Journalism of Courage
Amritsar, Jan 8: As they move from pleasant Bangalore to a cooler Amritsar, the German hockey players will probably be reminded of the winter back home, but for the Indians, it could one more hurdle to cross. Apart from the fact that their inability to score will once again be in focus, the Indians’ physical fitness and the ability to adapt to quick changes in weather conditions will also be tested when the two teams meet here for the third of the four Tests.
As far as the series is concerned, the Germans have made sure they will not lose, having won the first two Tests.
Baskaran, who took over from Pargat Singh (down with chicken pox), has been trying various combinations with the new-look side, which has several juniors in the ranks. With the key midfieders injured, it was feared that Indians would struggle against the speedy Germans. At Chennai Thirumalvalavan and Sukhbir Singh Gill looked overawed by the situation, fumbling with interceptions and passes. However, the two, especially Thirumal, snatchedthe initiative at Bangalore to get the Indian attack rolling. The experienced left-half Ramandeep Singh, too, gave an improved display.
A big gain from the ongoing Test series already, is the growing solidity in the Indian defence. The experienced Dilip Tirkey and newcomer Lazarus Barla have shown no hesitancy in making clean and timely interceptions. Barla also showed the penchant to move up in the attack. Goalkeeper Jagdish Ponappa has also stood up well to the Germans in penalty corner situations at Bangalore.Coach Paul Lissek, though not happy with his team’s performance , should not have too many reasons for complain. With not much to choose Germany’s shooting prowess could well tilt the balance.
