Former India captain and two-time Olympian V.R. Raghunath has observed a significant transformation in the domestic hockey landscape. As he leads the Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) squad in the 97th All-India
Raghunath attributes this positive momentum to the influx of younger talent and the professional approach adopted by various institutional teams. According to the seasoned defender, the competitive standard has been bolstered by the strategic recruitment of fresh players and the provision of scholarships by organizations such as Railways, Air Force, Navy, and BPCL, which has collectively injected new energy into the domestic circuit.
The Impact of Media and Future Olympic Outlook
Beyond the physical evolution of the game, Raghunath pointed to the role of technology and digital platforms in elevating the sport's profile. He noted that the widespread availability of live telecasts and streaming services for even smaller tournaments has created a more informed fan base. This increased visibility, supported by active engagement on social media, has played a crucial role in modernizing the sport and keeping followers connected to the action.
Looking toward the international stage, Raghunath weighed in on India’s trajectory following their recent success at the Asian Games and subsequent Olympic qualification. While acknowledging that the previous World Cup campaign did not meet expectations, he remains optimistic about the team's prospects for the
Raghunath stressed that the primary objective for the national side should be to secure a top-four finish and reach the Olympic semifinals. He highlighted the importance of integrating talent from the junior ranks and ensuring the squad gains sufficient match practice—ideally between 30 and 50 games—before the tournament begins. With a steady pipeline of emerging players, he believes the foundation is in place for a strong showing on the global stage.
