With Delhi Waveriders having already qualified for the semifinal stage, the game against Ranchi Rhinos does not hold much significance as far as the race for last four is concerned because the latter are also sitting handsomely at third with 23 points from six matches.
However, a battle between the finalists of the inaugural edition on Wednesday at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, has always resulted in high quality hockey and both teams would be hoping that Wednesday’s match will be no different.
“We will try and get the rhythm going and make winning a habit in the last two matches before the semifinals. We are preparing in the best manner against Ranchi who are also a strong team,” Delhi coach Cedric D’Souza told The Pioneer after the team’s practice session, while adding that the narrow loss to Rhinos in the away match will have no impact in the game.
Defending champions Rhinos have couple of injury worries. Team’s experienced mid-fielder, South African Austin Smith, has already been ruled out while ace striker Mandeep Singh is virtually out of the tournament due to back stress. Team’s premier English drag-flicker Ashley Jackson is yet to recover from an ankle injury he sustained during the last match against Dabur Mumbai Magicians and didn’t train on Tuesday evening.
Ranchi boast of an enviable mid-field comprising of German mid-field general German Moritz Furste, England skipper Barry Middleton, Birendra lakra, Manpreet Singh and Kothajit Singh.
Kalinga hold Punjab
Mohali: In a tightly-contested match, Kalinga lancers made Jaypee Punjab Warriors to work for a 3-3 draw and both the teams shared two points each.