Indian skipper Rani Rampal feels the Spain tour will provide a good platform for youngsters to make the cut for the Hockey Women’s World Cup squad and give the team a last chance to implement new changes in its game.
A 20-member Indian team left for the Spain tour on Saturday from the Indira Gandhi International Airport here. The team will play five matches against Spain starting June 12 in Madrid as part of its preparations for the World Cup in London next month. “The youngsters did really well in the Asian Champions Trophy, and if they can have a consistent performance in Spain, they stand a good chance to draw the national selectors’ attention,” said Rani. With two major tournaments ahead, Rani said this tour will be the last chance to implement new changes in their game.
“We will be playing the World Cup after a gap of eight years. It will be a big stage for everyone in the team and it will be a first-time experience for many,” Rani said.
“We obviously won’t be going there as the underdog, especially after a good show in the CWG. But the way we play in London will certainly have an impact on our performance at the Asian Games. The Spain tour will be our last and best chance to experiment too,” she added.
