’We will finish on the podium in Rio 2016 games’

That's what Indian hockey coach Michael Nobbs promises on the eve of the team's departure to China for the Asian Champions Trophy

'We will finish on the podium in Rio 2016 games'

That's what Indian hockey coach Michael Nobbs promises on the eve of the team's departure to China for the Asian Champions Trophy

India hockey coach Michael Nobbs has seen enough controversies, in the last four weeks he's stayed here, to last him a lifetime. But he's positive nevertheless. On the eve of the team's departure for China to participate in the Asian Champions Trophy (Sep 3-11), the Australian spoke to MiD DAY exuded confidence that this young Indian team can work wonders. Excerpts from an interview

Michael Nobbs

How are the preparations going for the Asian Champions trophy?
Preparations were going fine until all the disruptions that have taken place. But I think we are back on track now and things are looking good. However, I will know exactly where we stand, only after this tournament.

Speaking of the disruptions, did you have any issue with Sandeep or Sardara?
I have no issues with any player. But what they have done (walked out of the campu00a0 in Bangalore citing personal problems) has distracted many of our players.u00a0

Can Indian hockey afford to lose one the world's best drag-flickers, Sandeep and the only Indian to make it to FIH's World XI, Sardara?
I'd like to look at it this way -- two young players will get to wear the India colours. And youngsters do not disappoint.
u00a0
What are your expectations from this tournament?
It's evident that some of the other teams in the fray -- Pakistan, China, South Korea, Malaysia -- are better prepared than us. They have had longer and non-disruptive preparations unlike us. As far as our aim here is concerned, I don't have any target as yet. This is only our first step and this will help us gauge the future. So, results won't matter here.u00a0

Previous coaches have complained of not having absolute authority when it comes to selection and other matters. Have you experienced the same?
Not at all! The only thing I'm unhappy with is the political turmoil that the game is going through here.
u00a0
Do you really believe that Indian hockey can make it to London 2012?
I've been here for just four weeks now, but from what little I've seen, there is a lot of promise in this young Indian team. The London 2012 Olympic qualifier are early next year giving us only a few months to prepare. So, as far as the London Games are concerned, currently I'd say that our chances qualifying are 50-50. But I have a five-year contract here, so I promise you one thing -- Indian hockey will be on the podium at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

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