The Indian women's hockey team aims for a strong start against England in Bhubaneswar.
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The Indian women’s hockey team is set to make a significant impact as they kick off their campaign in the 2024-25 Pro League against England. After successfully defending their Asian Champions Trophy title last November, the team, under the guidance of coach Harendra Singh, is looking to build on their recent success.
With a roster that includes seasoned players, India is prepared to face a challenging lineup that features teams like England, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Veteran players return to strengthen the squad
One of the key players returning to the squad is veteran forward Vandana Katariya, who missed the Asian Champions Trophy defense.
Her experience and skill will be crucial as India faces teams ranked higher than them. Despite the potential for lineup experimentation from their opponents, the Indian team is aware that each match will be a tough test of their abilities.
England’s rocky start in the Pro League
England, on the other hand, has had a challenging start to the Pro League, managing only one win out of four matches. Their recent performance was particularly disappointing, suffering a heavy defeat against Belgium with a score of 2-8. This match against India presents an opportunity for England to rectify their form and regain confidence. Lottie Bingham, a promising 19-year-old forward, will be a player to watch, as she is currently the only English player to have scored more than one goal in the league.
India’s goal-scoring challenges
While India boasts a strong lineup, they too face challenges in the goal-scoring department. The return of Vandana Katariya is a strategic move to bolster their offensive capabilities. Additionally, Rutuja Pisal, who recently shone in the Women’s Hockey India League final, is expected to play a pivotal role in converting opportunities into goals. Coach Harendra Singh has instilled a hard-running intensity in the squad, which they hope will translate into a successful start to the Pro League.
Looking ahead to the match
This match marks India’s first appearance in this season’s Pro League, and they are eager to make a statement with a winning start. Fans can follow the live action as the teams clash at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. With both teams looking to improve their standings, this encounter promises to be an exciting and competitive matchup.
