Last Update: January 17, 2023, 20:56 IST
Manpreet Singh, captain of the Indian men’s hockey team. (Photo: IANS)
Against England, with whom they played a goalless draw, India were awarded four penalty corners.
India found wanting in penalty corner conversions in their first two matches at FIH Men’s World Cup, but midfielder Manpreet Singh is hoping the home side will hit the target against Wales here on Thursday.
India have been awarded nine penalty corners so far but haven’t scored one directly although Amit Rohidas found the target after rebounding captain Harmanpreet Singh’s drag-flick off the opponent’s stick in the opening match against Spain in Rourkela .
against England, with whom they played out a goalless draw, India Four penalty corners awarded.
He said, ‘There were some mistakes but if you see, England also defended well and their goalkeeper did well. We can’t say it wasn’t our fault, but somewhere along the way England defended well. We will analyze where we went wrong.
The 30-year-old Punjab player said, “England and Wales have almost the same game structure and we will try to implement the penalty corners we get against Wales.”
He said the match against Wales would be crucial as a big win would take India to the top of Pool D.
“We will try to play our best and play our normal game and execute our plans,” said Manpreet, who won India a historic bronze at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
The top players in each of the four pools qualify directly for the quarterfinals. The second and third placed players from each pool will participate in cross over matches.
Asked about his role in the team now that he is no longer the captain, he said, “To be honest, even before (when I was captain) when I stepped on the field, I gave my 100 per cent.” And it’s the best. Same now.
“In our team, it is not like Harmanpreet is the captain (and she does everything) because hockey is a team game and the contribution of all the team members is more important.
“So, the mindset is that whenever I play, I will give 100 per cent and take the youngsters along,” he added. Manpreet hasn’t been as good in India’s two matches, whenever he brings a high level to the field, but he plays. He’s not too worried.
“All right. Whenever I play, I try to give my best. No player is satisfied with his performance, always thinks that he could have done better in every match. I will contribute as much as I can. The more the better for the team.”
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(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed)