Is Indian men's hockey team's defense up to the mark for the Paris 2024 Olympics? A closer look

The biggest change in the Indian men's hockey team since the arrival of Craig Fulton as coach has been their shift to a defense-centric style of play. Gone are the days of high-press and aggressive play. The Harmanpreet Singh-led team now plays at a more measured tempo.

This change of tack has yielded good results as well. The team is still some way from reaching the level of performance it had done under Graham Reid in the year-and-a-half leading up to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. But the side looks much more settled and capable than it did around the time of the last World Cup.

Unsurprisingly, the defense seems to be India's strongest suit presently. This defense went through the stern test of facing Australia in a five-match series. While the Kookaburras thrashed India 5-0, the defense actually gave a decent account of themselves.

The Australians are the most ruthless team when it comes to attacking play. Dealing with them required steely resolve and this was shown by Harmanpreet and Co.

Indian men's hockey team's defense shapes up well ahead of Paris 2024 Olympics

One of the unsung heroes of India's bronze-winning campaign at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics was Amit Rohidas. Playing in a high-press set-up, Amit was the rock at the back for the Indian team.

The defender from Odisha is all set to play a leading role for India again at the Summer Olympics 2024. Apart from his reassuring presence at the back, Amit is also a brilliant No. 1 runner against penalty corners. This makes his role in the Indian team even more central.

This time though, Amit won't be all alone at the back. There would be other defenders, as well as India's ace midfielder, Hardik Singh - now playing as a defensive midfielder - working with him to keep the opposition at bay.

Indian team's captain Harmanpreet Singh himself will be a leading figure at the back for India.

Known to the laymen as a fierce drag-flicker, Harmanpreet's role as a defender often gets overlooked. During the Tokyo Summer Olympics, he played almost as a midfielder, foraying high up the pitch. This time though, he is likely to spend more time in a defensive role.

What makes Harmanpreet highly effective is his exceptional dribbling skills and calm demeanor under pressure. People often associate dribbling prowess with attackers, but the India captain has shown how useful it is for a defender too.

Often when he finds himself with the ball in or around his circle, with opposition players on the prowl, the 28-year-old weaves the ball out of the danger zone. What is even more amazing is the calmness he exudes in these situations, never looking overpowered by the presence of opponents around.

Harmanpreet Singh will play as crucial a role for India as Amit Rohidas in the defense unit. The experience of the two would be invaluable for India.

Jarmanpreet Singh's rise

While India's performance fell away after their bronze medal win at the Tokyo Olympics, one player's profile grew immensely. Jarmanpreet Singh has become India's Man Friday over the last few years.

He is exceptional at bringing down aerial balls and often helps the midfield by moving high up the pitch on one of the flanks. But as a defender too, his ability is undeniable.

A tall frame works in favor of the Amritsar-born defender, as he can impose himself upon opponents. Like Harmanpreet, his skills on the ball are impressive, and he moves swiftly around the turf to make his presence felt throughout the game.

Sumit and Sanjay need to rise to the occasion

Sumit is now fairly experienced as a defender. Though not as prominent as Rohidas, he too has to play a proactive role for India. His role would be especially crucial when Rohidas is given a breather.

Sanjay has made a big impression after coming into the Indian team not long ago. A tall and strong defender, Sanjay can hold his own against some of the tough forwards in hockey.

He has been impressive in recent months and this led to him getting a place in the squad for the Paris 2024 Olympics. It's time for him to live up to that potential.

India's defense looks balanced and stout. It has a doughty full-back in Amit Rohidas, a skillful dribbler in Harmanpreet Singh, an aggressive counter-attacker in Jarmanpreet Singh, and a robust presence in Sanjay.

To make things better, Hardik Singh's presence at the back further boosts India's defensive armor. Of all the aspects of the Indian team, the defense looks the most impressive.