Patna, Aug. 25 -- Ahead of the men's Asia Cup in Bihar, Indian hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed optimism that the team would start well and highlighted the need to have a great attacking and defensive game.

India had won the bronze medal in the previous edition held in Jakarta, where a young team with 15 debutants showed heart in their campaign by finishing on the podium back in 2022. This time, however, with the World Cup qualification at stake, India has brought their best squad to the campaign and will be looking to showcase their A game in Rajgir.

Placed in Pool A alongside China, Japan and Kazakhstan, India will kickstart their campaign against China from Friday onwards. India has won the title thrice, finishing as a runn...