U-23 GB captain Zain Karmali: Team goal? Play the best ball hockey of our lives

How is your team shaping up for the upcoming 2023 World Junior Championship in Liberec? Are you looking forward to it?
Our team is finalized and we have been through several months of training and conditioning tests - with more to come. I and the team are excited to compete against the best in the world and give it our all.

The coaches have entrusted you with the role of team captain. Are you nervous about your team leadership role? What are the goals of your team?
It's been an absolute honor for me to be named captain and a responsibility that I am looking forward to. Ball hockey has been my first sporting love and for kids like me, you always dream of playing as a captain in world championships. Our team is heading to the Czech Republic with two goals - to achieve the first-ever world junior victory for our country and to play the best hockey of our lives.

How are you looking forward to the international matches in Liberec? What are your expectations? Which opponent are you most excited to compete against?
We know we will be facing the best in the world in terms of skills and pure talent. We believe that effort can always level the playing field and we intend to compete and fight in every battle. At the same time, we know we face a challenge and we know our goals. I can't wait to see what our squad can accomplish.

How are you looking forward to the international matches in Liberec? What are your expectations from them? Which opponent are you most excited to compete against?
As for opponents, I'm looking forward to the game against Canada because I'm sure most of my teammates will be too. Dave Weloy is their head coach and one of the best coaches I've ever had, so I'm definitely excited about that match.

What are your primary focuses in tournament preparation?
At this moment, fitness will be key. We need to make sure we are in the best shape in terms of cardio. It's not just about being able to play one game in good condition, in these tournaments, it's a battle of exhaustion. Which teams can recover and go again.

What can we expect from your team? What will be the specifics of your game? Aggressive ball hockey? Or more tactics, relying on players to follow the system implemented by your coaches?
I can't reveal too much - you'll have to tune in and see. But what I can say is that we will play high-energy ball hockey. I expect us to fight for every inch of the field and adhere to our defensive principles.