A Versatility We Call “Withdrawn Forward”

“Withdrawn Forward” has risen to the forefront. Often flying under the radar to the casual observer, this position is now the linchpin in orchestrating attacks, seamlessly connecting the midfield with the forward line and shoring up the defence when the chips are down.

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August 4, 2024. Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, Paris, France. For 43 electrifying minutes vs Great Britain, India tapped into a hidden brilliance and unveiled a new form of excellence the world thought they lacked. Psychologically speaking, India mowed the grass, dug the soil, brought in new gravel, and built a new turf—all in one match.

An India renowned for attacks won the match with its defence. This extraordinary performance was a genuine team effort, with key positions on the field stepping up in pivotal moments. Generally, in moments like these, attention typically gravitates toward the goalkeeper, central midfielder, winger, and fullback. Yet, the essential role of the Withdrawn Forward in contemporary hockey often remains in the background.

In the fast-paced field hockey world, where tactics and strategies are as crucial as skill and athleticism, the role of a Withdrawn Forward has risen to the forefront. Often flying under the radar to the casual observer, this position is now the linchpin in orchestrating attacks, seamlessly connecting the midfield with the forward line and shoring up the defence when the chips are down.

One of the critical roles of a Withdrawn Forward is acting as the glue that holds the team together. Serving as the vital link between the midfield and the frontline, the player collects the ball from midfielders and dishes it out to the forwards, often threading the needle under intense pressure to keep possession and craft meaningful attacks. Equally important is the ability to create space in tight situations. Against teams that park the bus with a deep defensive line, the Withdrawn Forward can lure defenders out of position by dropping back, opening up pockets of space for other forwards to exploit. While primarily attacking, the Withdrawn Forward contributes defensively by pressing opponents when out of possession and in defensive clearances. However, it demands an extremely high level of fitness and tactical awareness – a playmaker.

Several players have made their mark in field hockey by excelling in the Withdrawn Forward role. However, few names pulsate with the same resonance and respect as my childhood hero and one of India’s most celebrated hockey players, Dhanraj Pillay. Known for his incredible skill, speed, and ability to read the game, Pillay’s ability as a Withdrawn Forward to link play and create opportunities for his teammates made him a nightmare for defenders and a pivotal player for the Indian national team during the 1990s and early 2000s. His presence was a constant thorn in the side of opposing defenders, who struggled to contain his dynamic playmaking abilities. Pillay’s vision allowed him to orchestrate attacks with precision, create countless opportunities for his teammates, and ensure that the Indian forward line was always a formidable force.

Another player who excelled as a Withdrawn Forward is Teun de Nooijer, renowned for his exceptional vision, technical skills, and ability to control the game from a deeper position. His contributions in the defence and attacks helped Holland win multiple medals in international hockey. Four-time Olympic medallist Luciana Aymar, often called the “Maradona of Hockey,” was a maestro on the field. Although she played as an attacking midfielder for most of her career, Aymar’s role often resembled that of a Withdrawn Forward. Her ability to dictate the game’s pace, create space, and unlock defences with her dribbling and passing made her a key player for Las Leonas.

Jamie Dwyer is another player who exemplified the qualities of a Withdrawal Forward. His intelligence on the field, skill, and experience allowed him to play a crucial role in linking the Kookaburras’s midfield and attack. Dwyer’s ability to drop deep, pick up the ball, and drive forward made him one of the most dangerous players in world hockey. He helped Australia win numerous titles, including the 2004 Olympic gold medal.

The role of the Withdrawn Forward has evolved with the changing dynamics of modern field hockey from the natural grass to the faster, more consistent AstroTurf surfaces. Traditionally, on natural grass, the game was characterized by a slower pace and unpredictable conditions. Uneven bounces and varying pitch surfaces meant that the Withdrawn Forward’s role centered on patience, control, and precision. Players had to drop deeper into the field, maneuver through patches of thick grass to collect the ball and execute passes with meticulous accuracy. The focus was exploiting rare openings in the opposition’s defence with well-timed deliveries. The faster, more consistent AstroTurf surface has introduced a new dimension to the Withdrawn Forward’s role. No longer confined to a slower, more deliberate style of play, today’s WF must adapt to the rapid pace of the modern game. Speed and agility have become paramount as players transition seamlessly between defensive and offensive duties.

Leo Devadoss, a veteran hockey coach and administrator, discussed the changing landscape of modern field hockey and noted the diminishing importance of the traditional starting 11. “With the advent of rolling substitutions, the idea of a fixed playing 11 has become outdated,” Devadoss remarked, underscoring the shift in team strategy. Devadoss further explained the changing team compositions, particularly in Indian hockey. “Most Indian teams recently take just three or four forwards in a squad of 18, typically comprising two goalkeepers, six defenders, six midfielders, and four forwards. They often play with two or three forwards during the game.”

This strategic shift, he pointed out, has led to the emergence of the ‘Withdrawn Forward‘ or attacking midfielder role. “It was only at the recent Olympics that we saw a team structure with one goalkeeper and five each of forwards, midfielders, and defenders,” Devadoss added, illustrating how team compositions are continually adapting to the demands of modern hockey.

In contemporary hockey, this role often requires a player with a deep understanding of the team’s tactical setup, the ability to make quick decisions under pressure, and the stamina to cover significant ground throughout the match. Coaches now emphasize the need for Withdrawn Forwards to be skilled and tactically astute, capable of executing the team’s game plan and improvising when necessary.

Mukul Pandey, a former Junior India coach and accomplished center-half, has moved away from modern hockey’s traditional idea of a Withdrawn Forward. “In my view, this concept no longer holds relevance. I prefer a 3-5-2 setup, with three strikers leading the attack, five midfielders providing stability, two deep defenders, and a goalkeeper safeguarding the backline. The midfield is the team’s heart, and it’s essential to maintain its integrity. The deep defenders can swiftly handle any breach that occurs.”

What is indisputable is that the Withdrawn Forward’s role in field hockey has proven to be a cornerstone of modern play in its metamorphosis from ‘Grass’ to ‘AstroTurf’ – a position that, when played to perfection, can be the difference between victory and defeat.

For Indian hockey, Hockey in India, and its passionate supporters, Paris 2024 wasn’t just a tournament but a turning point. Forged in Paris, this newfound strength under the tutelage of Craig Fulton now fuels his team to a new Olympic cycle and towards the excellent road to the Los Angeles Games. Once again, Indian fans will hope that India reignites the spirit of its nation, united and ready to chase glory once more.