Seniors Urge Juniors To Deliver Best; India Forward Sakshi Rana Shares Camp Insights

The Indian women’s hockey team continues an intensive training programme at the national camp in Bengaluru.

The coaching unit has prioritised technical refinement and tactical clarity ahead of major international assignments.

Under chief coach Sjoerd Marijne and scientific advisor Wayne Lombard, 18-year-old midfielder Sakshi Rana is sharpening her craft.

Sakshi made her senior debut last year and marked it with a goal against Spain. She described the camp as a vital platform for structured development and physical conditioning.

Sakshi Rana said the coaches identify weaknesses and address them methodically each day.

She credited Lombard for strengthening the squad’s focus on endurance, power and recovery protocols.

Sakshi Rana also acknowledged the senior players for maintaining competitive standards.

She said experienced teammates consistently push younger members to raise their performance levels.

Camp Focus On Discipline

Sakshi began her journey at the Pritam Siwach Academy in Sonipat under coach Kuldeep.

She developed an aggressive and pace-driven midfield style. In the senior environment, the coaching staff now emphasises composure and positional awareness.

During individual review sessions, the coach advised her to retain her attacking instincts but improve pre-scanning and communication.

She plays centrally and must read the field swiftly. Team meetings focus on structure.

Players practise ball retention and calculated passing. Coaches stress decision-making under high international pressure.

Her recent participation in the Hockey India League enhanced her match temperament.

She said exposure to elite overseas athletes strengthened her confidence. She studied centre-field dynamics by observing Dutch player Yibbi Jansen.

The squad now prepares for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Hyderabad, Telangana, scheduled from March 8 to 14.

India will face Uruguay on March 8, Scotland on March 9 and Wales on March 11.

Sakshi draws inspiration from senior midfielder Neha Goyal. She remains focused on daily improvement.

Sakshi Rana said she intends to seize any opportunity and return with victory. She emphasised discipline, execution and unwavering effort as the team builds towards qualification.

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