Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Former goalkeeper PR Sreejesh said that the Indian men’s team is capable of finishing in the top four of the upcoming World Cup. Sreejesh also said that getting a medal in the tournament will be a bonus for the team.
India won the World Cup way back in 1975 and since then they have never made it to the semi-finals. Indian team come into the tournament as Asia Cup champions and will be aiming to end the 51-year wait to make it to the final four.
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Sreejesh was part of the side that had two rough World Cup outings at home in 2018 and 2022, but he has also seen some of the best moments also in recent times.
India won back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics in Tokyo and Paris and will be hoping they can replicate the same magic this time around.
Speaking to JioHotstar, Sreejesh said that top four should be the minimum that they aim for this year. The former goalkeeper feels that the squad has the depth and quality to achieve it.
“In my opinion, the way this team is set up and the progress we have made, a top four finish is the minimum we should aim for. Looking at the pool we have been drawn in, we have the quality and the depth to achieve that.”
“Anything beyond that, silver, gold, or bronze, would be a bonus. The team is playing with confidence, and we have the experience to handle big games. We should not settle for less. The target is clear, we are here to compete and make our mark,” said Sreejesh.
‘DON’T LET PRESSURE AFFECT YOU’
Sreejesh said that for the Indian team, the focus will be on how they will handle pressure at the World Cup. The Indian legend said that the players need to focus on their role, stay calm and trust the training.
Sreejesh signed off by telling the players to enjoy the moment.
“The FIH Hockey World Cup is the second biggest tournament in hockey after the Olympics and naturally, the whole world is watching, and all eyes are on you. That brings a lot of pressure. But you cannot let that pressure affect your game. When you start thinking too much about it, your performance drops.”
“And when your performance drops, the pressure increases even more. So the key is to stay calm, focus on your role, and trust your training. Most importantly, you are playing in the World Cup. This is what you have worked for. Just enjoy the moment and give your best on the pitch,” said Sreejesh.
India will start their campaign on August 15 against Wales.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
