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Following India's second consecutive bronze medal finish in the Paris Olympics, Hockey India (HI) has begun planning for the 2028 Los Angeles Games. HI President Dilip Tirkey, a former India captain, outlined the federation's vision."We need to start preparing for the 2028 Olympics now. After the 2026 Asian Games, which is a qualifying event for the Olympics, the coach and selectors must collaborate to determine which players from the current team can compete in Los Angeles," Tirkey stated.With three players in their 30s and nine expected to be over 30 in four years, HI must consider the team's age profile. Tirkey emphasized the importance of performing well in major events such as the World Cup and FIH Pro League.The revival of the Hockey India League (HIL) is seen as a way to promote young talent. "Young players and domestic coaches will benefit. The addition of a women's competition is crucial," Tirkey said.HI faces challenges in managing the HIL, which was launched in 2013 and lasted for five editions. "The bigger challenge is making it successful in the long term. The franchises have been more or less finalized. The Odisha Government continues to be our backbone. I hope corporate houses will participate enthusiastically to support hockey," Tirkey added.To make domestic events more attractive, HI has made some of them mandatory for all players, including the National Championships. However, the federation may need to reconsider this decision due to the increased number of international events.Tirkey believes that the introduction of junior and sub-junior inter-zonal championships this year will provide youngsters with more competitive exposure. "More exposure will sharpen the skills of our under-17 and under-19 players," he said.

Former Indian hockey captain and Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey has expressed high expectations for the team's performance at the upcoming Paris Olympics. He believes that if star drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh is in top form, India has a strong chance of improving upon their bronze medal finish at the Tokyo Olympics.Tirkey praised the team's young players and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, but emphasized the crucial role of drag-flickers in determining the team's success. "If our drag-flickers are on song, nothing can stop us," he said.The Indian team will be supported by renowned mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton, who played a key role in India's 2011 Cricket World Cup victory. Tirkey highlighted the importance of mental strength in a high-pressure event like the Olympics."Conceding goals in the last minute has troubled us in the past, but we've improved in this area," he said. "Mental training is crucial, and I'm confident that our support staff will help the team perform at their best in Paris."Tirkey also stressed the need for a solid defense, particularly in defending short corners. He praised Amit Rohidas's performance in this area at the Tokyo Olympics.With experienced head coach Craig Fulton at the helm, Tirkey believes India has the potential to challenge for a medal of a different color in Paris. "The team has gained a lot of confidence under his coaching," he said. "Every player knows that we can change the color of the medal this time."India faces a tough challenge in their pool, which includes top teams like Australia, Belgium, and Argentina. However, Tirkey is confident that the team can overcome these obstacles. "We have to do our duties in our specific roles on that given day," he said. "The team must be fit, and we are one of the fittest teams."India will begin its campaign on July 27 against New Zealand, followed by matches against Argentina, Ireland, Belgium, and Australia.