Our Top Priority Is Australia Tour Right Now, Not Thinking About Paris Olympics: India Head Coach Craig Fulton

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The Indian men’s hockey team will play a crucial five-match series against Australia as part of their final Olympic preparation, and head coach Craig Fulton believes a good performance Down Under is their priority right now.

The five-game Test series between Australia and India is set to start on April 6, with additional matches scheduled for April 7th, 10th, 12th, and 13th. It is being termed as the Indian hockey team's final preparation ahead of the Paris Olympics 2024.

"It's (good performance in Australia) just our number one priority right now. We finished well in the Pro League, and we also had a three-week training camp in Bhubaneswar," Craig Fulton, the head coach of the Indian men's hockey team, exclusively told myKhel. "We want to test ourselves against one of the top teams in the world, and it's a good opportunity for the team," he added.

The trip to Australia is really important for the Indian national hockey team for it can help them gauge their preparations, improve their plans, and find ways to get better before the Paris Olympics. The team understands it won't be easy, but the players are ready to work hard and do their best in every game.

Former Belgium assistant coach Craig also stated that the team needs to improve their finishing. He added further, "If you look at the Pro League and the recent games that we played, we performed well. I believe we have shown competitiveness against the top teams, but we need to enhance our finishing. Currently, I believe we are in the top 4. While our penalty corners are effective, our penalty corner defence still requires improvement."

The Indian men’s hockey team has been grouped with Australia, Belgium, New Zealand, Ireland, and Argentina in Group B for the Paris Olympics. Before leaving for Australia, the 49-year-old Craig also commented on the group, saying the team can't afford to take any opponent lightly.

"I think it's a good pool, and remember it's the Olympics, so you have to be ready to compete with everyone. If you want to reach the final, you have to beat everyone. Right now, our priority is Australia, and we are preparing for that," the South African reiterated.

As the Indian men’s hockey team gears up for their crucial series against Australia, the focus remains steadfast on refining their game and honing their skills for the ultimate showdown in Paris.