Rising India need to be more organised: Charlesworth

Australian coach Ric Charlesworth feels that the Indian hockey team's recent success in international events proves that it is fast improving, but to become a force to reckon with in world hockey, the past masters of the game need to be more organised and disciplined.

Legendary Australian coach Ric Charlesworth feels that the Indian hockey team's recent success in international events proves that it is fast improving, but to become a force to reckon with in world hockey, the past masters of the game need to be more organised and disciplined.

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After a disastrous London Olympic Games campaign where they finished last, the fourth-place finish at the prestigious Champions Trophy in Melbourne and the second spot in the Asian Champions Trophy in Doha came as a soothing balm for Indian hockey, trying to regain its footing after a steady decline during the past decade.

But Charlesworth said, India need time to return to the top in world hockey. "India is improving but it will not suddenly happen that India is at the top of the podium," he said.

Adjust to new rules
"India can become better organised and disciplined. They have the skill but some of it is soft skill rather than being more robust.

"The rules have changed and India needs to adjust," observed the Aussie, who had a tumultuous 10-month association with Indian hockey as technical advisor in 2008.

"High quality game will certainly help young boys learn more and contribute to the national team too," he told HT from Jalandhar.

Regarding his team's prospects in the month-long event, he said, it's a balanced side and the boys are ready for the challenge.

"We have a bright chance to go to the top," he said.