Former captain and Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey has high hopes for skipper Harmanpreet Singh at the Paris Olympic 2024 News. Tirkey believes that if the star drag-flicker performs well, India has a strong chance to change the color of their medal. India clinched the bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, ending a 41-year medal drought. Expectations are high for the Harmanpreet-led team to improve their performance at the Paris Games, starting July 26.
Confidence in Team and Leadership
Tirkey expressed full faith in the team, especially in experienced goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and the young players making their Olympic debut. “I have full faith in Sreejesh and all the young players. Five players are debuting at the Olympics, but they have good international hockey experience,” Tirkey said.
High Expectations from Harmanpreet Singh
Tirkey emphasized the importance of Harmanpreet Singh’s role. “We expect a lot from captain Harmanpreet. He is a world-class drag-flicker. If he performs well, we have nothing to worry about,” Tirkey added. The team’s success largely depends on the drag-flickers performing at their best.
Mental Conditioning and Preparation
The Indian hockey team will have support from renowned South African mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton during the Paris Olympics. Upton, who helped India win the 2011 Cricket World Cup, has been working to enhance the team’s mental strength. He recently conducted an intensive camp in Switzerland before heading to Paris.
Tirkey highlighted the importance of mental conditioning. “Conceding goals in the last minute has troubled us, but we have improved. We have kept a mental conditioning coach for the last 1-2 years, and this has made a difference,” he said.
Focus on Defensive Strength
Tirkey stressed the need for a strong defensive line, especially in defending short corners. “Defending short corners is very important. In the last Olympic 2024 News, Amit Rohidas was strong in defense. We need to focus on this area,” Tirkey said. With experienced coach Craig Fulton leading the team, Tirkey believes India can change their medal color in Paris.
Tough Competition Ahead
India is placed in a challenging pool with Australia, Belgium, Argentina, New Zealand, and Ireland. Despite tough competition, Tirkey remains confident. “In the Olympics, there are 12 teams in two pools. We can beat top teams like Australia and Belgium. The players must perform their roles well. We are one of the fittest teams,” Tirkey stated.
India’s Schedule at the Paris Olympics
India will begin their campaign on July 27 against New Zealand, followed by matches against Argentina on July 29, Ireland on July 30, Belgium on August 1, and Australia on August 2. The team has already reached Paris and is preparing for their first match against New Zealand.
With strong leadership from Harmanpreet Singh, mental conditioning support from Paddy Upton, and experienced coaching from Craig Fulton, the Indian hockey team is well-prepared for the Paris Olympics. Dilip Tirkey’s confidence in the team’s abilities and preparation indicates that India is ready to compete at the highest level and aims to improve their medal color at the prestigious event. Stay updated with the latest Olympic 2024 News from IPL365.
