Potchefstroom (South Africa), Feb 7 : The Indian men’s hockey team is all set to embark on a new mission as they gear up to take on hosts South Africa and France in the opening matches of their FIH Pro League campaign. The world No. 3 side, who will play two matches apiece against both teams, is aiming to make a positive start to the 2022 season.
Vice Captain Harmanpreet Singh said: “We are really excited… We begin our season against two quality sides, so it’s a great thing. Our focus is to gain momentum, and make a positive start as we approach this year step-by-step. Pro League matches will help us prepare for the forthcoming major events.”
India will play their first match against France on February 8. The last time both the teams faced each other was in 2015 Hockey World League Semi-Final in Belgium with India winning the match 3-2. Speaking about France, Harmanpreet said: “We haven’t played against France in a long time. They are a really good side, and, no doubt, it will be a challenging match for us. “Our focus will remain on playing good hockey, executing our skills, and making the best out of the opportunities… We will give our 100 per cent, and hopefully, start the campaign with a win.” India will square off against South Africa on February 9. “South Africa are a quality team.
They are currently ranked 10th in the world, and are capable of beating any team on a given day, so you just can’t underestimate them. It will certainly be a good challenge for us, and we are really excited to face a good team like South Africa,” said Harmanpreet. After a two-day break, India will take on France on February 12 and South Africa on February 13.
