So far so good but…

The Indians showed Japan their place in continental hierarchy with a one-sided show but the Games’ defending champions are yet to displ...

The Indians showed Japan their place in continental hierarchy with a one-sided show but the Games’ defending champions are yet to display the stuff that champions are made of. The forwardline is yet to find the rhythm it showed during the Champions Trophy at Cologne and that could be a source of major problem when they take on the big guns at Busan.

Among the forwards, only Dhanraj Pillay was impressive against Japan but the old horse is such a wily customer that he can fit into any role in the team. At Cologne, Pillay was the one-man wall against Pakistan’s drag-flicker Sohail Abbas. Similarly against Japan today, the star brought out a great save in the penalty corners after striking India’s second goal.

Unfortunately, the rest of the forwardline has failed to infuse the confidence ahead of their crucial tie against Korea on Friday. This young Indian team relies more on its forwards to give it a psychological edge. If the forwards score from counterattacks it provides a breather to the so-far-edgy defence and midfield. The injury to speedy winger Prabhjot Singh has also reduced their strength and to expect Daljit Singh Dhillon to step into his shoes is rather taxing for Daljit and asking for too much. Now, it’s for chief coach Rajinder Singh to get the best out of the option available against Korea.

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The bright spot for India was, indeed, second goalkeeper Bharat Chettri who stood the test at this level and credit should go to him for doing a fine job under the bar. Coming in place of the inconsistent Devesh Chauhan, Chettri made a couple of brilliant saves of sure chances. The midfield and defence also deserve praise for not allowing the Japanese to penetrate beyond the 25-yard circle.

So far so good. And a semifinal berth for India was taken for granted. But the crucial phase starts now. Coach Rajinder Singh and his boys better watch out.

SP leader Azam Khan walks out of jail after 23 months, hundreds of supporters welcome him

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Senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, who is facing multiple cases, walked out of the Sitapur jail today after 23 months. He was scheduled to be released early Tuesday morning, but it was delayed due to impending court proceedings. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the Sitapur jail, waiting for the SP leader to walk out of prison.

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