From head coach Terry Walsh to officials, everyone might have written off India’s chances of a podium finish at the upcoming Hockey World Cup, but high performance director Roelant Oltmans feels they can spring a surprise provided they check their perennial problem of conceding late goals.
While Hockey India and Walsh are not aiming higher than a top-eight finish in the mega event beginning in the Hague, Netherlands from May 31, renowned Dutch coach Oltmans says India are capable of producing an unexpected result.
“If we are able to make sure we don’t crack in the final phase of the game and score goals rather than conceding like we have done in the past, we are capable of springing a surprise. The boys have worked really hard on the game, especially on their fitness,” Oltmans, who coached The Netherlands to an Olympic and World Cup title, said.
He, however, defended Walsh amongst others for not aiming higher in the competition where India finished eighth out of 12 teams in 2010.
“There is no point saying right away that we are going to reach the semifinals. If we lose the first two games, then the whole script goes awry.
“To be honest, it is very difficult to make any prediction, so let’s take it game by game. It depends on how the tournament develops. Momentum is important, especially in a tough group like ours. Even for 7-8 finish, we would need to beat at least two good teams,” said Oltmans.
India, ranked eighth, are in Group A with the likes of Australia (World No.1), Spain (10), Belgium (5), England (4) and Malaysia (13).
Being the interim coach earlier and in a managerial role now, Oltmans has spent a fair amount of time in India scouting talent.
“Holland has 900 astro-turfs and we have about 50 good ones here. In a country as big as India, we need at least 500 to make the sport more accessible.”