New Delhi [India], April 17 : With just 100 days remaining for the start of their journey at the Paris Olympics, the Indian men's hockey team is poised for an exhilarating quest. After clinching a historic bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the country's first medal after over 40 years, the team now sets its sights on the ultimate prize: a gold medal.
To turn this aspiration into reality, India faces a formidable challenge. Standing in their path are the reigning Olympic Champions, Belgium (world number two), along with tough contenders like Australia (world number three), Argentina (world number seven), New Zealand (world number 10), and Ireland (world number 12).
Securing at least a top-two finish in Pool B is imperative to progress to the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Pool A comprises the world's top-ranked team, the Netherlands, alongside Germany, Great Britain, Spain, South Africa, and hosts France, setting the stage for an intense battle in the 12-team men's hockey tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
According to Hockey India press release, the Indian Men's Hockey Team will begin their campaign on July 27 against New Zealand, followed by a match against Argentina on July 29, before facing Ireland and Belgium on July 30, and August 1. They will play their last group stage game against the mighty Australians on August 2.
"We just returned from the intense Australia tour, after a short break, we will hit the grind again. With only 100 days to go until the Paris Olympics, the excitement in the team is growing. The unity of our team continues to grow, fuelled by our shared goal to clinch the gold medal. Craig Fulton, our Chief Coach, keeps us on track with the Olympics countdown in our weekly schedule. Every day counts, every practice, every drillit is all building towards that moment on the Olympic stage. All in all, we are hungry, we are focused, and we are ready to shine." Indian men's hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh shared his thoughts.
Vice Captain Hardik Singh also weighed in. "The Australia test series (which India lost 5-0) highlighted the areas that we need to improve and upon our return to camp, we aim to make sure that we iron out any remaining issues well in time for the Paris 2024 Olympics. We will give our best on each of the 100 remaining days to make sure that our pursuit for the gold medal at the Olympics is successful."
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