VR Raghunath: Harmanpreet and Rupinder have different qualities

The 31-year-old feels that drag-flickers will prove vital for the team at the Tokyo Olympics.

The Indian men's hockey team must treat the next one year as a countdown to the Tokyo Olympic Games feels former India's drag-flick specialist VR Raghunath, who laid emphasis on the importance of having the right mindset in their approach.

"I think the team must take this period as a one-year countdown, and forget everything that's happened in the last 6-8 months. It is time to start afresh," stated the former defender who was a part of some of India's finest victories including the 2014 Asian Games and FIH Champions Trophy in 2016.

VR Raghunath further added that a six-week break is enough for players to recover. He said, "The six-week break was ideal for the players to return to the national camp feeling fresh. The Indian team's fitness is top class and they will continue to build on this plus point the next one year but having the right mindset in their approach and staying mentally positive will be very important."

Putting things into perspective, the former defender explained, "How the players cope mentally in this new scenario, how they approach every day mentally and once they start training and playing matches, how they will cope with the pressure and the results will matter a lot. Usually, in the lead up to the Olympics, the last 6-8 months pass by fast and the team must be prepared physically and mentally."

Commenting about the team's defence, VR Raghunath said India's current backline can challenge the best teams in the world. He remarked, "They are very experienced and the current set of defenders have about 50-80 caps together. They know each other very well and I don't see them having any problems even when they are put in a tough match-situation against any top team in the world."

VR Raghunath further highlighted that young drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh has matured as a player and with good support from senior compatriot Rupinder Pal Singh, India can produce lethal PC attack.

"Having two top drag-flickers who can play a full match is an advantage for India. Both Harmanpreet and Rupinder are equally good and they have completely different execution and qualities. Having various options and combinations in drag flick is always good. Plus, India has good options in Varun Kumar and Amit Rohidas who can be a great support when one of the two top flickers are having a rough day," he concluded.