New-look India eye London

Indian hockey April 19: Indian hockey captain Arjun Halappa is geared up for a dual role.

The 29-year old midfielder is looking ahead to “giving his best” when a new-look Team India take on the likes of Australia, Britain and Pakistan in the Azlan Shah tournament, beginning in Ipoh, Malaysia, from May 5.

“As captain, I would guide the team and keep the youngsters together since some of them are new.

“But the added responsibility doesn’t change me as a player. Once you step on the field, it is all about winning matches and we are geared up for a fresh season ahead,” Halappa said here on Tuesday. On the day, Hockey India named an 18-member squad after a two-day trial under the watchful eyes of . the national selectors.

At least half a dozen senior players will be missing in action, including former captain Rajpal Singh, dragflicker Sandeep Singh, defender Sardara Singh, midfielder Bharat Chikara and striker Tushar Khandker.

While Rajpal, Chikara and Khandker are nursing injuries, Sandeep and Sar dara are playing in the Belgium League.

The surprise ommission though was experienced midfielder V.S. Vinaya, who once again failed to find a place in the team despite his best efforts.

Said Halappa, “Experience is something we will be short on during the tournament, but then it is a good opportunity for the younger lot, given that we are heading into a crucial year. It will add to their experience.”

The Squad: Goalkeepers: Bharat Chetri, Adrian D’Souza.Defenders: Dhananjay Mahadik, Rupinder Pal Singh, Diwakar Ram. Midfielders: Gurbaj Singh, Vikas Pillay, Vikram Pillay, Arjun Halappa (capt), Ravi Pal, Danish Mujtaba, Vikas Sharma.

Forwards: Shivendra Singh, S.V.

Sunil, Mandeep Antil, Sarvanjeet Singh, Gurwinder Singh Chandi, Roshan Minz. Standbys: P.R. Sreejesh, William Xalxo, Gurjinder Singh, Birendra Lakra, Preetinder Singh, Bikash Toppo.