The return of senior striker SV Sunil from injury has strengthened the Indian men’s hockey team’s attack, fellow forward Ramandeep Singh said on Saturday.
The 26-year-old Sunil skipped the Hockey World league (HWl) semi-finals in Antwerp, Belgium due to a shin-bone injury. He was replaced by Devender Walmiki.
“With S.V. Sunil back in the team, it automatically strengthens our front-line where now I think the opponents will have to find ways to stop us. While the attack has to be maintained we even have to earn the crucial penalty corners,” Ramandeep said.
India will start their European tour on Monday against France at le Touquet.
Ramandeep feels the team needs to improve its game. “France is a tough team and they have proved that in our last clash (3-2 India win at HWl). But we have our strategy ready. The target for our match against them is to keep a good possession on the ball and score and not allow opportunities to go a waste.”