Can India make use of Loic Luypaert’s absence?
India’s two key players, Ramandeep Singh and Nikkin Thimmaiah, had faced injury and thus upset the calculations of chief coach Terry Walsh, but today’s rival Belgium too has its own share of injury related absence.
Belgium’s mainstay at the rear and also a reliable penalty corner expert Loick Luypaert missed the Hague number on account of injury.
Loick fell on his shoulders while playing a friendly against Germany two weeks ago.
Dorian Thierry has replaced him. He has just 15 caps in his kitty.
On the other hand, with 31-year old Xavier Reckinger, 316 caps, holding on the fort, Belgium presents a formidable rival to India, which is seeking to redeem its lost prestige once again through this world cup.
Tanguy Cosyns is the replacement for Loick insofar as penalty corner execution is concerned, though Tom Boon and Alexandre de Saedeleer too are good with conversions.
On this count, India is better prepared for what with Rupinder Singh and Raghunath in form.
Thomas Briels, John-John Dohmen lend solidity to Belgium midfield, where Indian counterpart Sardar Singh need to measure up to his well earned reputation. Jerome Truyens, captain, is an all rounder, and a proven hawk on the turf. I
But the man to watch will be Jerey Gucassoff, the 25-year old goalie, who may alternate the job with much more experienced but fading Vincent Vanash.
Whatever, a tough battle is on the hands, hope India makes most of absence of Loick.
Loick however will be in The Hauge, having been contracted by a television company of Belgium for expert commentary.