The new year is set to bring about fresh challenges for Indian hockey as the men’s team are gearing up for the World Cup scheduled to be held in Odisha from January 13. MM Somaya, former India skipper, considers the Harmanpreet Singh-led side to be unequivocal medal contenders at the showpiece event.

“I definitely see India as medal contenders. I wouldn’t say that we are set to win the World Cup, but I definitely see us as very strong medal contenders. It could be a toss-up between any other team like Australia, Belgium, India and now even Holland have built a strong team,” Somaya told mid-day.