Bhubaneswar: England hockey player Adam Dixon is a local hero here in the capital city for his stint with the Odisha's home team Kalinga Lancers in the Hockey India League tournament. Dixon who arrived with his other national team members yesterday to take part in the Men's Hockey World Cup from November 28, opened up about his love for the city.
Dixon who will represent the 'Three Lions' for the third time in a World Cup event this year said Bhubaneswar has a special place in his heart. "It's been a long journey and my first World Cup was in New Delhi but Bhubaneswar is a special place to come of course for my experience with the Kalinga Lancers, and the Champions Trophy and World Hockey League Finals here."
Asked about the preparations of his team ahead of the big event, Dixon said, "There are many players who have over a hundred caps for the team and there are also newcomers. England has a good combination of youth and experience that will help us guide through the tournament. Most of the team have played in India before and we know what to expect from here. Realistically, this is my final World Cup and after coming so close to winning silverware in last two occasions we hope to go once more this time".
Earlier, Dixon had spoken about his excitement for the same which was tweeted by Hockey India.
Meanwhile, as hockey fever continues to build up ahead of the much-awaited event, participating teams including Argentina, South Africa, France, China and Spain have already arrived in the capital city. Players and supporting staff of England and New Zealand arrived in Bhubaneswar late yesterday night. Defending champions Australia along with Netherlands and Belgium will arrive today.
The World Cup will begin with an inauguration ceremony at Kalinga Stadium on November 27. The tournament will begin a day later with Belgium facing Canada and host India taking on South Africa.
A total of 36 matches are scheduled to be played during the tournament spanning over 19 days from November 28 to December 16.