‘Finding balance between intensity and rest is key’
India women’s hockey team focuses on fitness, chance conversion, and match-specific preparation ahead of the 2026 World Cup
GS3EssayThe HinduGS3HockeyWomen’s sportsWorld Cup preparation
What happened
India women’s hockey coach Sjoerd Marijne has said the team’s final phase of World Cup preparation is centred on fitness. Marijne said the squad already understands the tactical plan, and that physical sharpness could decide close matches.
The team will leave for Germany on July 29 for two practice matches, then move to the Netherlands on August 2 for four more warm-up games against Chile, Japan, the Netherlands and Australia. The World Cup begins on August 15, and India open against China.
Background and earlier position
Marijne said the Asian Games and the World Cup are different competitive settings. According to him, Asian opponents tend to play a more chaotic style, while higher-ranked European and South American teams give fewer chances.
