Finding the goals, fixing the leaks: How India is righting its Pro League wrongs ahead of crucial Women’s Asia Cup campaign

A muggy Bengaluru afternoon had given way to a cool evening, a light drizzle speckling the azure blue turf at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre. The Indian women’s hockey players were split into two different-coloured vests, simulating match scenarios in an intra-squad game devised by analytical coach Dave Smolenaars and head coach Harendra…

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An Olympian’s eye, father’s advice: How Bichu Devi went from a reluctant goalkeeper to Savita Punia’s successor

Bichu Devi was in sharp form during a training session at the SAI centre in Bengaluru. “You want a break, Bichu?” asked Dave Smolenaars, the Indian women’s hockey team’s analytical coach. “No, coach,” the goalkeeper replied. Watching from the dugout was Savita Punia, India’s mainstay in goal for almost two decades, her foot in a…

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