India women's hockey team eye a direct place in the quarterfinals of the World Cup

The Indian women's hockey team will need to do everything right against New Zealand in its last Pool B encounter on Thursday to secure a straight spot in the FIH World Cup quarterfinals. The Indians, who finished fourth in last year's Olympics, drew 1-1 in their opening two pool matches against Tokyo bronze medalist England and China. The Savita-led team is presently third in Pool B, two points behind leaders China and New Zealand, who thrashed England 3-1 on Tuesday.

The 16 teams are divided into four pools of four teams each, according to the tournament format. The top team from each pool will advance to the quarterfinals, while the second and third-placed teams will compete in crossovers.

So, to win Pool B, India would need to defeat New Zealand and hope that China draws or loses against England. But, based on their performance in the first two games, that would be easier said than done.

While the Indian defence has been impressive in both games, denying England a single penalty corner in the first, the forward line and midfield have been lacking confidence. With the exception of Vandana Katariya, who scored both of India's goals, no other striker has lived up to expectations thus far. The likes of Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, and Navneet Kaur have all failed to deliver.

India has produced a few opportunities, but they have failed to capitalise on them. The midfield must also improve having looked rusty against China.

In terms of rankings, there isn't much separating the two teams: New Zealand is ranked eighth, while India is ranked just below. The Black Sticks women, however, would be beaming with confidence following their victory against England. As China and England play early on Thursday, both teams will have a good understanding of the equations they require.

India Women’s Hockey World Cup Squad

Savita Punia (captain), Bichu Devi Kharibam, Deep Grace Ekka (vice-captain), Gurjit Kaur, Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Nisha, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Monika, Neha, Jyoti, Navjot Kaur, Sonika, Salima Tete, Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, Sharmila Devi

Replacement players: Akshata Abaso Dhekale, Sangita Kumari