How India could be in trouble without Amit Rohidas, one of best defenders and rushers in world

Indian hockey has suffered a significant setback with the news of Amit Rohidas’ one-match suspension at 2024 Paris Olympics. The star defender will miss the crucial semifinal clash against Germany due to a red card received in the quarterfinal against Great Britain.

Rohidas, a pivotal figure in the Indian defense, was shown a red card for a stick-related incident involving a British player. While India managed to overcome the challenge and secure a place in the semifinals, the absence of their experienced defender will undoubtedly impact the team’s strategy and performance.

Why India will miss Amit Rohidas in Paris Olympics semi-final?

Known for his exceptional defensive skills and ability to initiate counter-attacks, Rohidas’ absence will be keenly felt. His leadership and experience have been instrumental in India’s success, and his absence will be a considerable challenge for the team to overcome.

How Amit Rohidas absence will affect India?

Crucial Loss for Indian Defence

Amit Rohidas’ absence is poised to have a significant impact on the Indian hockey team’s defensive capabilities. Rohidas has been a cornerstone of the team’s defence, known for his reliability and tactical acumen. Without him, the Indian defence will be more vulnerable, especially against high-calibre opponents like Germany. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has often been the difference in tightly contested matches.

Impact on Penalty Corner Defence and Drag-Flicking Options without Amit Rohidas

One of the most pressing concerns arising from Rohidas’ absence is the impact on penalty corner defence. Rohidas is renowned for his exceptional rushing skills during penalty corners, a critical role in thwarting opponents’ scoring opportunities. His speed

and timing in closing down drag-flickers have made him one of the best rushers in the world. Without him, India’s chief coach, Craig Fulton, will need to rethink and alter the team’s short-corner defence strategy against a strong German side.

Moreover, Rohidas is not just a defensive asset; he is also a valuable option for drag-flicking during penalty corners. His ability to convert these opportunities into goals has been instrumental in many of India’s crucial matches.

With him out of the lineup, India will lose one of their key drag-flicking options, forcing the team to rely more heavily on other players who may not possess the same level of precision and power.

Challenges in Rolling Substitutions

Amit Rohidas’ absence will also affect the team’s ability to execute rolling substitutions effectively as India will play with just 15 players instead of 16. Rolling substitutions are a strategic aspect of modern hockey, allowing teams to maintain high levels of energy and performance throughout the match. Rohidas’ versatility and endurance have been critical in this regard, allowing for seamless transitions and maintaining defensive solidity even during substitutions. Without him, the team might struggle to maintain the same level of cohesion and defensive strength, which could be exploited by opponents.

Strategic Adjustments by Coach Craig Fulton

India’s chief coach, Craig Fulton, will be tasked with making significant adjustments to the team’s strategy to compensate for Rohidas’ absence. This might involve shuffling players into unfamiliar roles, increasing the reliance on less experienced players, and potentially altering the overall defensive setup. Such changes can disrupt the team’s rhythm and cohesion, making it challenging to maintain the same level of performance.

India vs Germany: Tough Battle Ahead

In summary, the absence of Amit Rohidas is a considerable blow to the Indian hockey team, affecting multiple facets of their gameplay. His defensive skills, expertise in penalty corner defence, drag-flicking ability, and role in rolling substitutions are all critical elements that will be sorely missed.

Coach Craig Fulton faces a formidable challenge in reconfiguring the team’s strategy to cover these gaps. As India prepares to face Germany, the team will need to dig deep and find new ways to maintain their competitive edge without one of their most pivotal players.

Amit Rohidas: Indian Hockey Defender

• Born: May 10, 1993, Saunamara village, Sundergarh district, India
• Position: Defender
• Team: Indian national hockey team (vice-captain)
• Achievements: Bronze medal at 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Gold medal at 2022 Asian Games
• Career Highlights: Selected for national junior team in 2009, made senior team debut in 2013 Asia Cup.
• Notable Fact: First non-tribal hockey Olympian from Odisha.