Players of India and Japan hockey teams at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar on Friday.

A hockey test series between both the countries is scheduled to begin from May 3 at Kalinga Stadium in Odisha.

While Team India is considered to be the favourite in the four-match series, the players of Japan expressed their confidence of putting up a spirited performance.

"India in the ranking table is placed much above our team and recently they have also bagged the bronze medal in Azlan Shah Cup. So, they would definitely have an upper hand in the series. But, we are hopeful of putting up a challenge in front of them," said Japan's coach Kang Koen-Wook.

Earlier this week, India has announced its 24-member team, which featured Birendra Lakra as the lone player from Odisha. While the first two matches will be held on May 3 and 5, the reaming matches will take place on May 7 and 9, respectively. All the matches will begin at 7pm. The state sports department has decided not to collect any entry fee from the spectators.

For the Indian players, the test series would be a preparation for the team for the upcoming Hockey Men's World League semi-final scheduled on next month in Belgium.

"It is an honour to represent your country before your home crowd. Hockey lovers of the state had stood with Team India during the Champions Trophy last year, and this time, we are hopeful that the home crowd will encourage us. Besides, the players who will perform better in the series will definitely get a chance for the upcoming World League semi-final," said Lakra.

Director of sports Ananta Kishore Jena said: "We are hopeful of good turnout during the matches and such international events will help in promoting the game in Odisha," said Jena.

Text by Lelin Kumar Mallick
Pictures by Sanjib Mukherjee