Saffron Lenin had a great passion for hockey and that's the best asset to have! He posted so many times about domestic hockey too. Was it his name that caused issues?
If Belgium can do it, then France can do it too with proper planning, getting a few coaches, etc. They are neighbors as are they to Germany and Netherlands. They have the same physique and fitness infrastructure. And, modern hockey, since the astroturf age is about fitness and coaching. Less about stick skills. So, it is easier to learn and become good at, imho.
Prasen, you are spot on. Physique and fitness infrastructure helps a lot, but speed and good formations (to allow easy/safe passes from defence etc) are vital. The other big factor is decision making under pressure, which we are pretty bad at. Then, there's the maddening habit of picking up needless cards is a speciality of all Indian teams- men, women, senior or junior.
If we get on to the podium, it'll be a great achievement. I'm hoping we can repeat our 1997 JWC run.