India hockey mid-fielder SK Uthappa said that team team would aim to become a stronger attacking unit during the upcoming away Test series against New Zealand.

New Delhi:

The Indian hockey team would aim to become a stronger attacking unit during the upcoming away Test series against New Zealand as it prepares for the Hockey World League in November-December, mid-fielder SK Uthappa has asserted.

Aiming to do well in the tournament, which is scheduled from October 2 to 11, Uthappa said the team would look to showcase the dexterity gained from the ongoing preparatory camp.

The New Zealand tour will be in preparation for the Hockey World League Raipur scheduled from November 27 to December 6 in Raipur, followed by the all important Rio Olympics next year. (Team Working on Penalty Corners And Defence, Says Manpreet Singh)

Well aware of the fact that mid-fielders have played an active role in scoring goals, Uthappa emphasised on ball possession to craft well-connected passes.

Speaking ahead of the Tour, Uthappa said, “The team has been trying to give their best so far and the New Zealand tour will help us to polish our skills for the most important 2016 Rio Olympics. We aim to capitalise more goal scoring opportunities and make our attack even stronger in the tour ahead.

“We will look to carry out our game strategies in high detail and structure as we expect an intense clash. The coach is working on different combinations so that we are aware what works best for us before the all important tournaments ahead. With Manpreet and Dharamvir back in the squad it automatically adds huge boost to the line-up.”

India and New Zealand A will be playing their first match on 2nd October 2015 in Auckland.

source: http://www.sports.ndtv.com / NDTV.com / Home> NDTV Sports> Hockey> News / by Press Trust of India / Sunday – September 27th, 2015