Kuantan (Malaysia), Nov 13 (IANS) The Indian hockey team will take on Japan in their first Pool A match of the eighth Junior Asia Cup at the Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium here on Saturday.
“We feel Malaysia is our second home and are expecting great support throughout the tournament. The Japanese play a very tight game and speed is their major weapon. We have worked on our defence and attack and will be expecting to give a strong show in the tournament,” coach Harendra Singh said on Friday.
India have been clubbed with Japan, Malaysia and China and will face the latter two on November 15 and 17 to earn a semi-finals spot. South Korea, Oman, Bangladesh and Pakistan have been put together in Pool B.
“The whole team under the supervision of coach Harendra has been training rigorously. We will try and stick to our routine and keep it simple. We believe Japan will be equally prepared and enthusiastic for the match. We shall put our best foot forward,” India captain Harjeet Singh said.