Learnt a lot from Argentina, Germany tours: Navjot Kaur

BENGALURU: India woman hockey forward Navjot Kaur is upbeat about India's chances in the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games after two tough tours of Argentina and Germany following resumption of international hockey this year.

The Indian team, which was playing after a year, displayed a lot of character against world No.2 Argentina and heavyweights Germany despite not getting a win on both tours.

"First and foremost we were excited to get back on the field after one whole year of no international competition for us," Navjot said, reflecting on India's visit to Argentina.

"Of course, the results were not what we had desired against Argentina. Otherwise, I would say our performances, both individually and as a team, was good, be it against Argentina or Germany. We actually learnt a huge deal from these tours."

Navjot talked of the gap between the top teams and the rest.

"We also got a better understanding about how top sides in the world prepare for games, and aspects that we can fine-tune as a unit. There is a big difference between the top three sides and the rest of the world. All of us became a lot more aware of our overall game, and where we need to get better," she said.

"We implemented what we had worked on during our training sessions over the past year. Now, there are a few things that we are working on in camp; in defence and in attack. The fact that we could hold our own against some of the top sides in the world will help us immensely going into the Olympics."

Navjot is currently training with the Indian team at the SAI campus in Bengaluru ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. The camp concludes on April 7, after which there will be a 10-day break. IANS

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