The Chinese team at the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai has been inexperienced but impressive, physically powerful and fighting hard. They have also been the most disciplined side in the tournament. Not surprising, given their coach has also been an umpire and co-authored a research paper on the physical demands of the sport.
Haiqin Weng looks more academic than sporty, but there is no doubting the seriousness of this tournament for his side.
“This is a very high level tournament and we are putting full efforts. It is difficult to reach the top-four here, yes, but we are taking every match very seriously, even if we lose. There are valuable world ranking points available and we are playing with full intensity,” he told The Hindu, speaking through a translator.
