Nobbs confident of restoring past glory

Indian hockey will have its glory back within the next two years, according to newly-appointed Australian coach Michael Nobbs. “Though I am yet to analyse the potential of the players since I’ve been at the camp for only three days, I am confident of bringing back the glory of Indian hockey within the next couple of years,” Nobbs said at the Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) Southern Centre, where 90 players are undergoing a two-month long coaching in preparation for international matches.

Nobbs said the right analysis was needed but that would take time. The players’ list would be pruned to 48 over the next two days.

“I will get a chance to study the players’ potential after selection and then chalk out programmes to prepare them for international matches. Now it is very difficult to comment with so many players,” he added.

Replying to a question, Nobbs said players who were not selected would also undergo a year-long training.

“My aim is to have at least three teams, so that in case of injury or any other reason, the talent from other teams can be drawn to fill the gap.”

On penalty corners, Nobbs said: “Penalty corners can win a game and hence cannot be ignored. We need at least four players who are sure of converting them (corners) into goals.”

On the dope controversy, Nobbs said the players would be educated on the dangers of taking drugs and would be subjected to tests at random.

“The team should be a mix of experience and youth so that the experienced players can guide the youth,” he added. Nobbs, during his five-year stint, will also train regional coaches.

On the Olympics berth, he said: “I have only seven months. I can’t assure anything. The next international match is in China in September and I will concentrate on preparing the team for it.”