Indian Men's Hockey Team Ready for Paris Olympics Clash with New Zealand

Captain Harmanpreet Singh and Vice-captain Hardik Singh share their thoughts on the team’s preparation and mindset ahead of their opening match against New Zealand. The team aims to build momentum and improve upon their past performances.

With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, Indian men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh shared insights into the Games village atmosphere and preparations for their opening match against New Zealand. He emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum against a team they respect as a formidable opponent.

Vice-captain Hardik Singh revealed the team's mission to change their medal color, asserting they can outshine other contenders on their best day.

After arriving in Europe two weeks ago, the Indian team engaged in a mental conditioning camp in Switzerland and played high-intensity practice matches against Malaysia, the Netherlands, Germany, and Great Britain to gear up for their first Pool B match against New Zealand on Saturday. Harmanpreet believes a strong start is crucial for success in a group that includes reigning Olympic champions Belgium.

The captain also praised the inspiring atmosphere in the Games Village and the team's unity. Reflecting on their World Cup memories against New Zealand, Harmanpreet remarked on the need to keep pressure throughout the game.

Adding to these sentiments, Hardik Singh expressed the team's eagerness and nervous excitement for their Olympic campaign, emphasizing their readiness to tackle pressures and their determination to perform well and go for the gold.

India is set to compete against New Zealand at 2100 hrs IST on Saturday, July 27, in their first Pool B match.

(With inputs from agencies.)