Saina Nehwal found herself — poised to return serve — amongst an array of international names on the huge hoardings on Day 1. THE KIDAMBI FAN CLUB If there was a distinct buzz about any Indian player, it was Kidambi Srikanth. I’m expected to pass on a message to her that she’s missed on the tour. the answer and Southgate will regard identifying a skilful midfield controller as a priority, assuming the expected qualification is achieved. Trailing 11-14 at the break, Bengal Warriors did well to bounce back for a slender 25-24 lead in front of their star co-owner Akshay Kumar. “With regards to scheduling, as you know, I don’t make the schedule,” said Sharapo. The team finished sixth out of 10 teams in the tournament but the defeats to minnows Malaysia and Canada dented the confidence Hockey India had in him. Gujarat Fortunegiants’ winning streak snapped by Haryana Steelers, Bengal Warriors choke and draw with UP Yoddha. Algeria are virtually out of the race after having qualified for the 2010 and 2014 finals, where they reached the round of 16. Those results, coupled with the team’s inability to beat the top nations, made Oltmans’ position untenable, according to Hockey India.