Bengaluru, Feb 23 (NationPress) As the Indian women’s hockey team undergoes intense training at the national camp in Bengaluru, the emphasis is on enhancing skills and maintaining tactical discipline. Guided by chief coach Sjoerd Marijne and scientific advisor Wayne Lombard, 18-year-old midfielder Sakshi Rana is making the most of this opportunity to refine her skills and gain insights from seasoned teammates.

Sakshi, who made a significant senior debut last year by netting a goal against Spain, finds the camp to be an essential setting for continuous improvement and physical conditioning.

“We are addressing our deficiencies systematically,” Sakshi remarked about the camp's effective environment. “Wayne sir emphasizes the importance of strength and fitness while also teaching us about recovery. The structure is communicated clearly, and senior players consistently motivate us juniors to deliver our utmost.”

Having begun her career in midfield, Sakshi’s naturally swift, attacking gameplay was initially fostered at the Pritam Siwach Academy in Sonipat under coach Kuldeep. Now, in the senior framework, the coaching team is aiding her in balancing her innate speed with tactical insight.

“During one-on-one discussions, the coach encouraged me to persist with my current approach while emphasizing the need to enhance my pre-scanning and on-field communication since I play centrally,” Sakshi explained. “In team meetings, we are concentrating significantly on structural understanding—how to maintain possession and recognizing when to pass rather than merely dodging, as pressure escalates quickly at the international level.”

Her preparation has also greatly benefited from her recent experience in the Hockey India League. Competing against elite international talent has given her essential exposure and a deeper comprehension of high-level match readiness.

“After participating in the Hero HIL, my confidence in communication increased significantly,” she noted. “Observing international players like Yibbi Jansen play in the center has also imparted valuable lessons on approaching the game.”

While her primary goal is to absorb all the knowledge she can at the camp, the team is simultaneously gearing up for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Hyderabad, Telangana, set from March 8 to 14.

Inspired by senior teammates like Neha Goyal, Sakshi is focused on her training to ensure she is prepared if an opportunity arises.

“Every day, I step out with the mindset to give my best,” Sakshi shared about her outlook. “If I get to participate in the qualifying round, I aim to return victorious. For now, we must work diligently every day and implement everything the coach has outlined for us.”

The matches for India's FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Hyderabad, Telangana, will commence on March 8 against Uruguay, followed by a match with Scotland on March 9, and concluding with their final game against Wales on March 11.