New Delhi, 28 November 2014: Bracing up for the impending Hero Men’s Champions Trophy 2014, last edition’s silver medallists and 8 times champion – the Netherlands Men’s Hockey Team was seen practicing hard to brush up their skills and strategies, today at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. The Hero Men’s Champions Trophy 2014 will see 8 teams clashing for the title in the matches scheduled to be played at Bhubaneswar (India) from6th December – 14th December 2014.
Speaking on the preparations, Chief Coach Max Caldas said, “With the upcoming matches lined up, we have to focus on the approach and have to figure out the changes required. We all as a team have to adapt to the changes for a good game. Also, there has to be an understanding and we are working to develop it. I am trying to understand each player well about their individual skills and strengths. Our focus is to build up as a team and prepare ourselves strong enough to compete in the tournament.”
Commenting on the upcoming tournament prior to the departure, Captain Robert Horst said, “We can feel that the tournament is going to be quite interesting and entertaining here in India. The challenge will be a tough one with all good teams competing with each other. For the time being, our focus is on the first match which will help us to take lessons to compete with the Indian team. They have been playing the top tournaments in the past 5-6 years and have a strong side with good technical skills. However, we have been preparing ourselves for the tournament and have a strong team with experienced players as well as young ones who will bring a difference to the game.”
About the team: Standing tall with their set high-standards, the 2012 Olympic Silver medallists, The Netherlands had a disappointing 2013. However, 2014 has seen a massive resurrection in their form, on-field. The year started with a stunning performance at the Hero Hockey World League Final, where they took the title by thrashing New Zealand 7-2 in the Gold medal match. Although their form was impressive throughout, in the end they had to settle for the Silver medal as Australia took The Netherlands down by 6-1 in the Rabobank Hockey World Cup 2014.
The Hero Men’s Champions Trophy 2014 will be aired live on Ten Sports.
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