Jharkhand hockey players lack concentration to play in the forward line

Ranchi, Jan. 11: In spite of churning out talented hockey players, the state has not been able to produce a forward till now. Coaches and international players blame it on the lack of concentration and insight which is essential for a good forward player.

Most players, both men and women in the national squad, either play in the defence or are mid-fielders.

The glorious history of hockey of the state has many brilliant players to boast about. Michael Kindo, Sylbanus Dungdung and Manohar Topno represented the country in the Olympics.

Justin Kerketta, Noel Topno, Gopal Bhengra and John Toppo have played in many international events. But they all played as full backs or mid-field players.

Sumrai Tete, Masira Surin, Subhadra Pradhan, Ashunta Lakra and Adeline Kerketta are regulars in the national squad, but except Adeline, none of the players play in the forward line. Adeline too is sometimes made to play from the mid-field.

National women?s hockey team coach M.K. Kaushik said most tribals have less attacking abilities and have a defensive approach to the game.

Olympian Michael Kindo who represented the Indian team in the 1972 Olympics said, ?That fraction of a second is important when a forward has to decide on his next movement. This is lacking in the Jharkhand players,? said Kindo.

Players who are in the national squad too admit they lack concentration and the extra intelligence needed to become good forwards.

Sumrai, a regular in the national women?s squad, said, ?Adeline and I started playing in the forward line but I am now playing centre-half. I do lack that extra mental preparedness essential for a forward player. Concentration and finishing is also lacking among the players.?

President of the Jharkhand Women?s Hockey Association Mridula Sinha, who was also the principal of Bariatu Girls? High school which produced many international hockey players, said, ?We have great expectations from Amrita Minj, who will be joining the national camp as a forward. We hope she succeeds in being a good forward.?