FIH Hockey World League 2017 Final: 5 reasons to be optimistic of India's campaign

#3 Impressive recent form

India emerged victorious in the 2017 Asia Cup

The performance of the men's team has been quite impressive in recent times. A narrow defeat to Australia in the 2016 Champions Trophy final was followed by a third place finish in the 2017 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. In October 2017, India emerged as winners of the Asia Cup with a relatively young side. The system employed by coach Marijne was absorbed by the young Indian players who delivered the goods when it mattered. This has underlined the fact that they are capable enough to face any daunting opposition.

India's focus on counter attacking hockey could be put to severe test by the strong oppositions that they will face. In a fast-paced style, the lion's share of tracking back and going forward depends on how the midfielders fare. With Sardar absent, the onus will be on Manpreet Singh. The tournament will present an ideal platform to a man who idolises Sardar. The experience of SK Uthappa should be vital to the team's fortunes.