Shows big improvement in game awareness, tactics
The scars of failure are hard to erase. The Indian men's hockey team went into the Asian Games as hot favourites and was in rampaging form in the pool phase. Yet, caution was the watchword. The bulk of the team, which went through the heartbreak of finishing with a bronze at the previous edition of the Asian Games in Jakarta, was wary of complacency.
After amassing 76 goals in the initial phase, the semifinal loss to Malaysia changed the narrative in Jakarta. Driven by desire and spurred by redemption, a dominant India reclaimed the gold on Friday they last won in 2014.
The road to Hangzhou was strewn with challenges. After a dismal show at the World Cup at home in January this year, the cookie crumbled with the overhaul of the coaching and support staff. Head coach Graham Reid made way for Craig Fulton in March. Time was at a premium as the South African assembled his crew and went about familiarising himself with the team and the system.
Traditionally, the Indian team does not welcome change at short notice, but it adapted well to Fulton's half-court and defend-to-win approach. Most often, India loaded the midfield with Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh anchoring with accuracy, while dismantling the opposition's defence at regular intervals.
Also, a key factor that worked in India's favour was Fulton's approach towards the Asian Games. While most went gung-ho about a Paris Olympics berth, Fulton's message was clear despite the pressure to deliver.
"We want all the eggs in the basket and come away with that opportunity (of qualifying for the Olympics). But if it doesn't happen, it is not the end of the world. It is not ideal but there is another opportunity," was his bold statement to TOI in the run-up to the games.
The coach's mantra and mental coaching sessions with Paddy Upton have augured well for the team. While rewriting records at Hangzhou, the Indians showcased a marked improvement in game awareness and tactics.
With Mandeep Singh and Sukhjeet Singh, 24-year-old Abhishek - unyielding and accurate - formed the fulcrum of the attack. While Abhishek was at the heart of selfless passing and deft stickwork inside the circle, Mandeep backed his talent with sharp presence of mind, improved reflexes and good reaction time. After a forgettable World Cup, skipper Harmanpreet Singh has found his mojo again. Unperturbed under pressure, the drag-flick ace was the leading scorer for India with 13 goals. His penalty corner variations with Amit Rohidas hold promise for the future with Paris 2024 in mind.
