Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: 5 promising young players to watch out for

#2 Tim Brand - Australia

Timothy Brand was part of Australia's victorious squad in the 2018 Champions Trophy

With 1906 points, Australia are currently the top ranked hockey team in the world. The defending champions are odds-on favourites to clinch their fourth World Cup title. They have a formidable mix of rising stars and experienced stalwarts at their disposal.

Tim Brand is among the most promising prospects to watch out for in the Australian squad. Born in Netherlands, he relocated to Sydney at the age of three along with his Australian mother. Growing up with the dream of playing hockey at the highest level, he made his mark for the New South Wales Waratahs.

The 19-year old forward played his part in Australia's triumphant campaign in the 2018 Champions Trophy. He scored twice in the group stage match against Argentina. Tim Brand, who has played 12 matches and scored four goals for the Kookaburras thus far, will turn 20 on the day before their opening game against Ireland in the 2018 Hockey World Cup.