New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS): Captain Rani Rampal and goal-keeper Savita Punia can guide the Indian women's hockey team to a podium finish at the Tokyo Olympics next year, according to legendary former India captain Dhanraj Pillay.

"We have one of the best captains in Rani. I think Rani and goal-keeper Savita can take the team to a podium finish. The team is working really hard, preparing for the Olympics, and am confident of a good show," Pillay said on Indian table tennis player Mudit Dani's online chat show 'In The Sportlight'.

Both players have been crucial in the women's team's recent endeavours in international hockey. Both were part of the teams that achieved podium finishes at the 2014 and 2018 Asian Games and played a central role in India's campaign at the Olympic qualifiers last year.

Rani, 25, impressed greatly as she led India to the podium at the 2018 Asian Games and also guided the team to a spot at the Olympics for the second successive time. And goal-keeper Punia, who is one of the most experienced players in the team, has also played a crucial role in the qualifiers.

Pillay feels the sport in India has come a long way. "What hockey I played and what these players have been playing for the last 10-15 years, there is no match," said the 52-year-old former India captain who made 339 appearances in his illustrious 15-year long career.

"The current players are playing based on their fitness abilities. Fitness has changed Indian hockey and also the players are very serious about their physique and endurance abilities. Today, the Indian team can be compared with Australia or the Netherlands or Germany. They can give a tough fight to any team in the world."