A close duel on the cards

S. Thyagarajan

Chennai Cheetahs is roaring now. How the fortunes have turned for it in the last few days! Given up as the unlikely squad among top four in the World Series Hockey (WSH), Cheetahs are parading on a new trajectory.

The 4-1 victory against Karnataka Lions on March 17 and the 3-1 verdict against Pune Strykers earlier have catapulted the Chennai outfit to the second spot with 13 points. The chances of making it to the semifinals depend on the success content in the next four matches.

Bracing to face Bhopal Badshahs in the crucial tie on Tuesday, Spanish coach Brasa’s wards are soaked in the fragrance of recent victories. They are determined not to let slip the advantage gained after a couple of mediocre displays early on.

Both CC and BB are on par now at 13 points with the latter enjoying the advantage of a win in the previous meeting. BB had prevailed 3-1.

The supporters here are yearning to witness a CC win on the home turf on Tuesday to consolidate its progress towards the final.

Warsi factor

Predictably, all eyes will be on the strapping Pakistan player, Imran Warsi, whose goal aggregate stands at an impressive 14, the highest in the competition. His penalty corner strikes have been breathtaking.

Olympian Adam Sinclair, with five goals to his credit, had not disappointed his fans. Mid-fielder Vikram Pillay has three on the score-sheet.

The Bhopal outfit includes two familiar local names; coach and former Olympian, V. Bhaskaran, and interestingly, his son, Karan. The strike rate of Bhaskaran (jr.) is striking. A lot depends on the CC defence to deny this dangerous striker any leeway inside the striking circle.

As the points table clearly conveys, the duel between CC and BB is invested with all the ingredients of a battle of nerves. Does the spectator need anything more?