Indian hockey team focussing on "speedy passing" ahead of Incheon Asian Games

Incheon, South Korea: Striker SV Sunil says the Indian hockey team is working on "speedy passing" ahead of their Asian Games opener against Sri Lanka on September 21.

Talking about his role in the team said and the overall preparations, Sunil said: "I will aim to create sufficient tension in the opposite camp so as to sneak the ball in the goal. I will strive to create a strategic game play to make the winning strike."

The 25-year-old from Kodagu, Karnataka revealed the focus of the team's training.

"Speedy passing and possession of the ball within the forward line-up is going to help us create more opportunities and currently our practice sessions are focusing on the same," Sunil said.

He was also all praise for India goalkeeper P R Sreejesh.

"Sreejesh has always given me tips on how to go through the opponents defence and which I have applied in my games. I have always taken his guidance seriously and it has helped me better myself as a player."

The women's team take on Thailand in its opener and midfielder Navjot Kaur said the squad's morale is high.

"The team is high on morale and we are confident to top our Pool in the group phase. Our training session today was more on speed, coordination and passes. We are confident of starting the tournament on a winning note. The weather is good and we have acclimatised to the conditions here," said Navjot.

She further added, "playing with experienced players at the midfield position including our captain Ritu Rani, Vandana Katariya and Sushila Chanu, I have gained a lot of experience which is helping me grow as a player each day".