Indian hockey coach Michael Nobbs feel that the prest team has the potential to do well and he would like to see his team on the top once again.  Nobbs talks to Rajorshi Moitra of Indian Sports News about the upcoming Olympic Qualifiers and what changes he has made in Indian hockey so far. Excerpts:

ISN: What is the main difference between Indian hockey and Australian hockey?
Michael Nobbs: The main difference lies in their approach towards the game. Before I joined as the coach of the team, the Indians were more defensive than offensive on the field unlike the Aussies, who are known for the attacking game. But the Indians are a talented lot and I am working on changing their approach.

ISN: What is your opinion about the Olympic qualifiers and what is your expectation?
Michael Nobbs: It’s very important. As we all know that India have ruled the game in the past and I believe that the present lot too has the potential to do well. As the coach of the team I would like to see India perform well. I would like my team to win every tournament with a good margin. I am on a five year contract with Hockey India and during my stay I will try my level best to improve Indian hockey.

ISN: What coaching tips are you giving to the Indian hockey team?
Michael Nobbs: I am just telling them to play their natural game, which is very important. And having said that, we are trying to bring some Australian techniques into the Indian hockey. But that doesn’t mean Indian technique is bad. It’s always beneficial to pass on some extra knowledge.

ISN: What is your opinion about Indian goalkeeping?
Michael Nobbs: Before I joined, I wasn’t happy with the goalkeeping part in the team. It wasn’t up to the mark. But after so many practice matches and tournaments, goalkeeping has improved immensely. Our coaching guidelines will equally help the goalkeeping style as well. Indian players have great potential in giving tough competition to the opponents.

ISN: Apart from hockey, are you loving the Indian culture and its food?
Michael Nobbs: Yes, I love India and I do like its culture and food. Our visit to the country in the past has always been memorable. The people of India are equally supportive and I like people’s passion towards this game. Indian hospitality is fantastic and I am loving it.

ISN: How has been your journey so far?
Michael Nobbs: It has been fantastic. Indian players are supportive. It’s great fun coaching Team India. Olympic qualifiers are important for us and we are looking forward to play some good hockey. I hope we will surely win the tournament and book a berth to Olympics.

ISN: During CWG, India lost the final match against Australia with a margin of 8-0…
Michael Nobbs: Like I said earlier, Indians used to play defensive hockey. According to me if you are playing against team like Australia, you need to attack and then only can you succeed. We are working very hard on this and we are hoping for the best.

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