Bengaluru’s national training camp has become a powerhouse of development for the Indian women’s hockey team. With chief coach Shourd Marin and scientific advisor Wayne Lombard at the helm, the focus remains squarely on elevating skills and instilling tactical discipline. Eighteen-year-old midfielder Sakshi Rana is making the most of this opportunity, honing her craft under the watchful eyes of seasoned players.
Sakshi burst onto the senior scene last year with a memorable debut goal against Spain. The camp’s daily regimen emphasizes growth, physical conditioning, and recovery, creating an ideal environment for young talents to flourish. ‘The areas where we’re lacking push us to work on them every day,’ Sakshi shared. ‘Wayne sir is doing fantastic work, focusing on the strength and fitness we need. He’s teaching us the importance of recovery. The structure is explained slowly and clearly. Senior players keep motivating us juniors to give our best.’
Her natural speed and attacking flair were first nurtured at Pritam Siwach Academy in Sonipat under coach Kuldeep. Now in the senior setup, the coaching staff is helping her balance that pace with tactical awareness. In team meetings, coaches urged her to stick to her strengths while improving pre-scanning and on-field communication—crucial for a central midfielder.
‘They told me to keep doing what I’m doing but emphasized better pre-scanning and communication since I play in the center,’ she explained. ‘In team sessions, we’re focusing heavily on structure—knowing when to receive the ball and pass, rather than just dodging, because pressure comes fast at the international level.’
Recent stints in the Hockey India League have boosted her confidence immensely. Facing top international talent like Yibbi Jensen gave her invaluable insights into high-level play. ‘Playing HIL built my confidence in communication. Watching foreign players like Yibbi in the center taught me so much about game management,’ she noted.
While Sakshi absorbs every lesson in camp, the team gears up for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifier in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14. India opens against Uruguay on March 8, faces Scotland on March 9, and wraps up against Wales on March 11. This camp is laying the foundation for what promises to be a strong showing.