Bangalore: With the London Olympics as the only motive now, the challenge for the hockey team is to take on the ‘superior’ giants. The emphasis at the ongoing camp at the SAI centre has been laid on the shortcomings that were seen at the qualifiers in New Delhi last month.

Decision has been taken that a total of 48 players have been called up. About half that number has been training since last week and those who played in the qualifiers will report on March 15. Michael Nobbs admitted that the team should have scored more field goals in the past matches.

Nobbs also added that though the defence looks like a weakling, they would be able to work on the same as he believes that the team is an attacking one.

The coach also mentioned that Dilip Tirkey has done a fantastic job with the defenders in the short period and he would In fact be going to write a letter asking him to be sent back to the team.

On being asked why the number was still 48, Nobbs said preparing for the worst is important and hence the number. He also stated that they are trying to build up a second team. The ongoing camp, the last one in Bangalore before the Olympics, will be “gym, strength, speed and fitness based rather than pattern play etc.

India will be playing a four-nation tournament at the Olympic venue from May 2 to 6. A training pattern has been planned in Santander (Spain) from July 1 to 13, before the team takes part in a four-nation event from July 14-18. Then, they shall proceed to London.

By Indian Sports News