Two years ago when the Indian juniors took part in the inaugural Johor Cup,an invitational hockey competition,the future looked bleak. The then coach,Mukesh Kumar,didnt get the players he wanted and had little command over the ones that were picked by the selectors. The team didnt even have a pre-tournament preparatory camp and had disciplinary issues. So it wasnt surprising to see the side miss out on a podium finish.
This time around the story has changed. While qualifying for the final,the team has won all their games with big margins. Such has been their domination that Indias final league game against Malaysia on Saturday is inconsequential. Experts say that a lot can be expected from this promising bunch at the Junior World Cup in two months time and at the senior level in the years ahead.
The idea of blooding juniors in important tournaments too has reaped benefits. As Manpreet Singh pointed out ahead of the Johor Cup,the experience of playing against the top teams in tournaments such as the World League semifinals,Azlan Shah Cup and Asia Cup this year as well as the Champions Trophy last year has instilled a lot of confidence in them to take on the junior sides.
It shows on field. The comeback win against Argentina and one-sided results against South Korea and Pakistan bear testimony to this teams potential.
The feel-good story doesnt end there. There are a bunch of quality of players who are at home waiting for their turn. Devinder Walmiki,Mandeep Singh,Malak Singh,SK Uthappa,Gurjinder Singh are some of the players whose inclusion will lift the quality of the squad further.
(Mihir is a senior correspondent based in Mumbai)
mihir.vasavda@expressindia.com
