New Delhi: The Indian men hockey team that is due to play the upcoming 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is gearing up for the upcoming challenge of the tournament. With the squad already announced for the tourney the team is practicing to get their coordination on the field before their first clash against Korea scheduled for April 5.

Speaking on the upcoming opening clash against Korea, Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh said, “We met Korea last in the semi-final of the Asian Games. While we had won that match we cannot do away with the fact that they are a very competitive and strong team with a good line of attack. To counter them we will have to be strong in all aspects of the game, with clear focus on trying to cash in on the penalty corners. For me, I know they will try every possible way to sneak goals and I am up for the challenge. We will want to start the tournament with a win which will help boost our confidence for the next clash”.

Talking on Gurbaj, he said, “He is growing with every game. I was amazed to see him in the recent Hockey India League. The way he defended and counter attacked was amazing. His speed is the key which helps him to go forward and come back to the defence line in a short span of time. His versatile ability will be a boost to both our defence as well as the strikers in the upcoming tournament”.

The Indian Men Hockey Team will be participating in the 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup at Malaysia from 5 April 2015 – 12 April 2015.

India will play their first match against Korea at 15:40 HRS IST on 5 April, 2015.