Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi, March 12: The Indian women’s hockey team will aim to get back on track against a higher-ranked but out-of-touch Germany in the FIH Pro League two-legged tie, which begins on today (Saturday).
The Indian ladies had a strong start to their first season in the Pro League, defeating China 7-1 and 2-1 in their first two games in Muscat. The Indians, who are currently ranked ninth in the world, beat world number six Spain 2-1 at home before losing 3-4 in the return match last month.
Despite the setback, the Indian ladies are still in good form in the FIH Pro League standings, as they are now in third place with nine points from four games (three wins and one loss).
And India captain Savita, who is filling in for an injured Rani Rampal, will be looking for a better performance from her squad at the Kalinga Stadium on Saturday.
After three straight victories, the Indian women were on track to extend their unbeaten streak before conceding a late goal in their last FIH Pro League encounter versus Spain.
On Saturday, India will have an advantage against world number five Germany based on momentum. It is critical, according to Savita, to participate in the match.
“Since we have started playing against stronger teams, we have learned the importance of mental strength. It is a skill as important as your skills with a hockey stick. How we adapt to pressure situations can determine the results,” she said in a virtual press conference.
“We are happy to be given opportunities to face off against a strong team such as Germany and we hope we can showcase the strengths that we have worked on in the training,” she added.
Notably, Indian team last faced Germany in a pool match at the Tokyo Olympics, where they lost 0-2 to the Germans. In total, the two teams have faced each other five times since 2006, with India winning only once.
Following an outbreak of COVID-19 cases in the visitors’ camp, the FIH Pro League matches between the Indian men’s hockey team and Germany, which were scheduled to take place at the same time as the women’s games, have been postponed.
