How is Indian men's hockey team's midfield shaping up for Paris 2024 Olympics?

Indian men's hockey team will be eyeing another medal-winning run at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Having ended a 21-year wait for a hockey medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, fans would be hoping for more success this time around.

Under coach Craig Fulton, the Indian team has developed a solid defense. However, for a successful run, they would also need a capable midfield. Last time around, the Indian side was led by Manpreet Singh. In Paris, Manpreet would again be a key part of the Indian midfield, sans the captaincy duties.

Manpreet has now become one of the most experienced members of the Indian team. Without the added burden of leading the team, he can focus on his vital role in the midfield. Thankfully, he has the support of other capable players in this role.

Hardik Singh remains the heart of Indian team

Without a shadow of a doubt, Hardik Singh is India's most important player for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Vice-captain of the team, Hardik's skill and astuteness make him the engine room of the Indian unit.

Under Fulton's guidance, Hardik has been shifted to a more defense-centric role. But he remains at the heart of India's formation and is vital to the team's dynamism.

One wonders if India would be better served with Hardik playing a more aggressive role. However, the current set-up, where he is a defensive midfielder, has produced good results. So, expect him to boost India's defense and provide the basis for counter-attacks.

Raj Kumar Pal and Vivek Sagar Prasad's importance

Both Vivek and Raj Kumar are very skilled operators in the midfield. Vivek is similar to Manpreet in stature and is also, like him, efficient in moving the ball around.

Raj Kumar Pal is highly skilled and would be expected to engage in one-on-one battles with opposition players. For the Indian team to succeed, Raj Kumar will have to eliminate players and open up opportunities for the forwards.

The absence of seasoned campaigner Nilakanta Sharma from the squad was a surprise. He has been a key part of India's midfield for many years. With him now absent, Vivek Sagar Prasad and Raj Kumar Pal will need to step up their efforts. They will also have more time on the field at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Shamsher Singh's responsibility

Another fallout of Nilakanta Sharma's absence is the added responsibility on Shamsher's shoulders. Playing as a more attacking midfielder, Shamsher will need to get more proactive and creative.

The Indian team has, at times, in recent years lacked attacking flair. Shamsher will need to make sure that when he has the ball, he opens up channels for the attackers and assists them in beating the opposition's defenders.

Overall, India's midfield will look different in the absence of Nilakanta. However, Hardik and Manpreet are two very capable midfielders. The likes of Raj Kumar, Vivek and Shamsher will have to up their game.

Since India is playing in a more defense-centric approach, counter-attacks will be crucial. Here, the speed and dodging skills of these midfielders will decide how successful the team is.