Hockey captain Harmanpreet emphasises importance of ‘good start’ against New Zealand

Paris: Indian men’s hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh exuded confidence ahead of their campaign opener against New Zealand at the Paris 2024 Olympics, scheduled for Saturday. Speaking of New Zealand in particular, they are a tough opponent for India – and memories of their 3-3 (4-5 SO) result at the World Cup in Bhubaneswar last year are a reminder not to become complacent against this opponent.

“We have always seen New Zealand as a tough opponent and have discussed this team extensively during our team briefings. It is good to be reminded of the World Cup match against them, so we know that we cannot lose momentum at any point in the match. It is important for us to start well and keep the pressure high throughout the match,” said Harmanpreet. After arriving in Europe just over two weeks ago, the Indian team has undergone a three-day mental conditioning camp in Switzerland and played intensive practice matches against Malaysia, Netherlands, Germany and Great Britain in the days leading up to their first match in Pool B here.

“We had some really good practice matches before we arrived in Paris and the experience as a unit in Switzerland was something unique, nothing like what we have done in the past. We are in a good position mentally and physically to start our campaign,” said the captain.

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