CHENNAI: The Indian team will be hoping to win the Junior Hockey World Cup after a gap of nine years when it opens its campaign against Chile in Chennai on Friday.
Two-time champion India last won the tournament in 2016 and will be looking to repeat the feat under new coach and Olympic medallist PR Sreejesh.
India is ranked second in the world and comes into the tournament after winning silver at the Sultan of Johor Cup. One concern the team faced there was the rate of penalty corner conversions. India converted only a handful from more than 50 opportunities. At the press conference ahead of matchday, head coach Sreejesh expressed optimism about improvements in this area and said the team is much better prepared for the World Cup.
Tribute to Hockey in Chennai
Before India's match against Chile, which begins at 8.30 pm, fans will be treated to a visual display featuring a laser show celebrating 100 years of Hockey India.
Special light rigs and screens are in place, and the opening event will be attended by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin.