Prachura compared chess phases to hockey gameplay. The opening represented a strong start, the middle game highlighted controlling the midfield, and the endgame focused on finishing moves. He used examples from India’s Tokyo Olympics Bronze-medal game to demonstrate precision and mental toughness.

Players explored chess pieces as hockey positions. Pawns symbolized defense, rooks and bishops created structure, knights represented unpredictability, and the queen embodied versatility. Players actively engaged and tried chess themselves, with Vivek Sagar Prasad and Captain Harmanpreet Singh participating first.

Coach Craig Fulton praised the initiative, noting it sharpened players’ thinking and strategy. Vivek and Harmanpreet shared that learning chess enhanced their approach to hockey. The session is expected to encourage future interdisciplinary learning, strengthening the team’s tactical and mental skills.

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Constantini highlighted that the team trained in China for a month and gained valuable experience. “We finished fourth last year and earned a direct entry to the quarterfinals. A medal will depend on one crucial match,” he said. The coach added that strong teams like Japan, Korea, and Hong Kong will challenge India, but the squad is closing the gap.

He emphasized that performing well in the Asian Championship could reflect India’s global potential, including at the Olympics. “This young team has great energy and focus,” Constantini noted.

Praising Odisha’s sports infrastructure, he said the state has built a “citadel of sports.” He added, “Investing in sports means investing in the future. Odisha’s commitment will inspire athletes to perform better.” This is Odisha’s first time hosting an Asian-level table tennis event and marks another milestone for India’s sports capital.

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