India will play alongside China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand in the tournament. Given the competitiveness in the tournament, the Indian team will have to be at their best to defend their Asia Cup title.
Ace defender Ekka highlighted the importance of the tournament and gave a brief description of the team’s preparations.
Deep Grace Ekka added:
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Important year for the Indian team, says Deep Grace Ekka
The top four teams in the Asia Cup will qualify for the 2022 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup to be held in Spain and the Netherlands later this year.
With FIH Pro League matches and Asian Games also scheduled to take place in 2022, Ekka believes the tournament can set their momentum this year.
India won the Women’s Hockey Asia Cup trophy in 2017 to qualify for the Hockey World Cup 2018, where they managed to reach the knockout stages.
Also read: Indian Women’s Hockey Team reach Muscat ahead of Asia Cup 2022
In 2018, India also went on to win the silver medal at the Asian Games. Deep Grace Ekka believes a successful title defense in Muscat could once again be the start of India’s road to a successful year.
Deep Grace Ekka throws light on her role
The versatile player highlighted her role in the team as a senior player in the defense and the vice-captain of the team.
Speaking on the tactics needed for a water-tight defense, Deep Grace Ekka said:
India will play their first match against Malaysia on January 21.
Also read: Asia Cup hockey: Savita Punia to lead 18-member squad, Deep Grace Ekka appointed deputy
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