India would have to step up their fitness level to bridge the ever-widening gap with the top hockey playing nations, feels promising British centre half Ashley Jackson.
"In terms of skills, they are second to none. But it's the physical fitness where they struggle. That's where the top teams have gone too far ahead. There's a reasonable gap to bridge," the senior member of champions Ranchi Rhinos in the upcoming Hockey Indian League said today.
The first Briton to win FIH's 'Young Player of the Year' award in 2009 is also impressed with the standard of hockey among the kids in Ranchi.
"We were coaching small kids in Ranchi and they were all phenomenal. India have some bright young talents who are better than what we have back home," the 26-year-old said.
Having made his debut for England during the U-21 Junior World Cup at an age of 17, Jackson has not looked back even as the sport has little to offer in terms of money in United Kingdom.
"We train like professionals, but we get paid as amateurs. Only two per cent get paid 'very small amount' from their clubs," Jackson, who plays for East Grinstead in Sussex, said.
This is one reason why players like him like to play in HIL even if that means missing out on a few matches in their league season.
"It's good to spend a few weeks here and get some money. Many even do odd jobs to support themselves. HIL has been quite good, hope it keeps growing," he said.
