India have been placed with Australia, Netherlands and Germany in Group A and will face a tough opener Jan 10 against World No.4 England.
"We are playing England in the first match. We are totally focussed on the match and will go all out against them. It is an important game and we will try our best to win. In today's hockey, you cannot take any team lightly," said Sardar, who has 174 caps.
The attacking midfielder said that this tournament will serve as a good preparation ground ahead of premier events. This year will see the World Cup in May-June followed by the Commonwealth Games in July-August and Asian Games in September-October.
"The next few tournaments including this are very important to us as the World Cup is coming soon. This tourney will help in selecting the team. All those players who give their best in this event will help their own chances of selection. Then we have the Commonwealth and Asian Games after the World Cup which are very important for the country," said the 27-year-old.
