Pro League matches will help Indian team asses itself ahead of major tournaments: Harmanpreet Singh

Harmanpreet Singh says the FIH Pro League matches against quality sides like France and South Africa will help the Indian men's hockey team assess itself and prepare for other major tournaments later this year. India are set to take on hosts South Africa and France in the opening matches of their FIH Hockey Pro League 2021/22 campaign, starting here from Tuesday. The world No.

3 side will play two matches apiece against both teams on the tour. "We are really excited for our first assignment of 2022. We begin our season against two quality sides, so it's a great thing.

Our focus is to gain momentum, and make a positive start as we approach this year step-by-step. "These FIH Hockey Pro League matches will certainly help us prepare for the forthcoming major events," Harmanpreet was quoted as saying by Hockey India in a press release. The Indian team has a packed 12 months ahead with several big-ticket tournaments like the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games slated to be played and Harmanpreet feels the Pro League will help the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallists iron out the chinks in their armour.

"We have a busy 2022 year, with a lot of important tournaments lined up in the next 12 months, so we need to ensure that we are fully prepared. "I think the FIH Hockey Pro League 2021/22 matches will not only help us gain the experience but will also give us the understanding about where we stand with regards to our game as well as training. "You see, there's always room for improvement, so apart from executing our skills and plans, our focus will also remain on improving our game, and that's where I think Pro League matches will play a vital role." India will play their first match against France on Tuesday.