Bangladesh confident despite presence of China, Oman

Three-time defending champions Bangladesh have sights on the AHF Cup title despite the fact that they will be facing stiffer tests than ever before.

Bangladesh, champions of 2008, 2012 and 2016 editions of Asia's second-tier hockey competition, will face the likes of China and Oman – both ranked higher than Bangladesh – along with lower-ranked teams in the tournament which will be held in Jakarta from March 11 to 18.

"As a player, everyone wants to become champions and I am no exception. We have to give our best to achieve the title, but we want to progress match by match," captain Sarwar Hossain told media during their jersey-unveiling and photo-shoot in Dhaka on Sunday.

"We have had good perpetration for the last 15 days at BKSP and the first match of the tournament is important for us. If we can implement the style from training, we can produce good results," said the midfielder.

Defender Ashraful Islam, too, confident about becoming champions despite the presence of China.

"China are a tough side, who played in the World Cup. But we are hopeful about beating them as we beat them in the Asia Cup," said Ashraful.

The three teams from the 10-team competition will qualify for the next Asia Cup.