India, July 16 -- By Karunesh Kumar

New Delhi [India], July 16 (ANI): Former India hockey captain Sardar Singh said both the Hockey World Cup and the Asian Games are crucial, but stressed that the Asian Games carry added significance as winning gold would secure Olympic qualification.

He credited India's recent success, including back-to-back medals and strong Pro League performances, to the team's technical improvement and world-class coaching, while stressing the need for careful injury management and recovery with only 20 days separating the World Cup and Asian Games.

The World Cup is scheduled to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15 to 30, while the Asian Games, an Olympic qualifier, will take place in Japan from S...