New Delhi: The Indian team under the guidance of the coaches went through a hectic practice session today at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. The entire team looked confident and good to go for the upcoming Hero Hockey Junior World Cup 2013.

Speaking on a goalkeeper’s role in the team, Goal keeping coach Dave Staniforth said, “The entire team is aiming at making the strategies work on the day of play. It is very obvious that in such a big tournament players of all teams are under a great pressure of performing and winning their matches but we as coaches ensure that our players are motivated and not get succumbed by such expectations. While all the players in the team understand their role, it is the goalkeeper’s role which I feel is in the most odd as he always has to be alert. My tip to the goalkeepers is to always be focused and wherever possible try reading the mind of the opponent which will help understand his next move or shot.”

India: How they qualified: Hosts / 3rd place – 2012 Junior Asia Cup. Malacca (MAS).
Rank in previous editions: 1st (2001), 2nd (1997), 4th (2005), 5th (1979,1983,1985), 9th (2009)

About the team: India junior teams have always been blessed with dazzlingly skilful players, and the class of 2013 is certainly no different. The current group has an abundance of experience, with midfielders Kothajit Singh and team captain Manpreet Singh both being central figures in the India senior side. The team coached by former South Africa star Gregg Clark have fixed their sights firmly on the title – you can be sure that the tournament hosts will be cheered by their adoring fans every step of the way.

One to watch: Manpreet Singh -- A key midfielder of the senior team, Manpreet has rightly earned himself a reputation as one of hockey’s rising stars. He is an inspirational captain, and will be determined to guide his team to glory on home soil.