The Hockey World League semifinals is just round the corner, and the elite competition is set to take place in London, starting Thursday. India will take on Scotland in one of the four matches scheduled for the opening day.
Both India and Scotland will be keen to start the campaign with a win and set the tone for the rest of the tournament.
India start the match as favourites given both teams world rankings. India are ranked sixth while Scotland are 23rd in the world. Moreover, Scotland is the lowest-ranked team in the Hockey World League semifinals.
India, led by Manpreet Singh, should not have many problems against Scotland at the Lee Valley's Hockey and Tennis Centre in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. India have been constantly improving and coach Roelant Oltmans has been doing a wonderful job.
Have a look at the India’s practice images as they get set for the Hero Men’s #HWL2017 SF in London from 15th June. https://t.co/d6tw6UlVvb pic.twitter.com/88IuCz7d3G
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) June 14, 2017
India would hope to start against Scotland on a high note to set themselves up against the likes of Pakistan and Netherlands in the later stages. But as of now, India need to focus on Scotland, who will be eager to pull off an upset.
Despite India expected to beat Scotland, they need to be mindful of the threat the likes of Grassick Chris can pose.
India vs Scotland hockey schedule
Date: 15th June
Time: 6:30 pm IST
Venue: Lee Valley's Hockey and Tennis Centre
TV Listings: Star Sports 2 (India). England, Scotland: BT Sport.
