New Delhi, Dec. 29 -- Belgium and Vedanta Kalinga Lancers star Alexander Hendrickx believes India has what it takes to challenge for the Hockey World Cup title next year, ending a long wait for global glory.

India last lifted the Hockey World Cup in 1975, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 2-1 in the final in Kuala Lumpur.

Nearly five decades on, expectations are once again high, and Hendrickx feels India is firmly among the favourites.

"India is doing well in the last tournaments. They're always there to play for the medals and for the title," Hendrickx told ANI.

"We obviously want to lift the World Cup as well, but it will be tough. It will be a hard World Cup," he added.

The Belgian defender added that the tournament could come down t...