India's men's hockey team captain, Harmanpreet Singh, has long been regarded as one of the most influential and dedicated players in the world of hockey. At just 27 years old, he has already achieved considerable success, including two Olympic bronze medals. However, despite his prestigious accolades, Harmanpreet has set his sights on one of the few titles that eludes him—the World Cup. India’s last World Cup victory dates back to 1975, under the leadership of Ajitpal Singh, making the quest for a World Cup medal not just a personal goal, but a national aspiration.
In an insightful conversation with PTI, Harmanpreet expressed his relentless desire to add a World Cup victory to his already glittering career achievements. He emphasized that while the Olympic medals are a cherished part of his legacy, a World Cup triumph holds particular significance due to the long gap since India’s last win. "The way we performed in Paris shows that we can compete with the top teams and win," he said, reflecting on his confidence in the team’s ability to challenge the world's best. The World Cup has long been a missing piece in India's hockey history, and Harmanpreet is determined to be the one to break the drought.
Harmanpreet's commitment to his craft is evident in his approach to the game. Known for his exceptional drag-flicking ability, he continues to hone his skills in this area to stay competitive. "Drag-flicking is getting tougher, and my goal is to bring in more variations and remain fit," Harmanpreet said, acknowledging that the modern game is evolving rapidly. He understands the importance of adapting to new challenges, and his determination to stay at the top of his game demonstrates his commitment not only to his personal career but also to India's success on the international stage.
Looking ahead, Harmanpreet's immediate focus is on the upcoming FIH Pro League matches and securing the Asia Cup, which will serve as a qualifier for the next World Cup. These competitions are seen as stepping stones toward their ultimate goal. He is confident that India has the talent and determination to perform at the highest level and bring home a World Cup medal for the first time in nearly five decades. "We have a great mix of experience and young talent, and I believe we are capable of achieving the success that we have been missing for so long," he remarked, instilling hope and belief in the future of Indian hockey.
The recent return of the Hockey India League (HIL) after a seven-year hiatus has provided a fresh burst of energy for Harmanpreet and the Indian hockey community. The HIL, which serves as a platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills, has proven to be a valuable development tool for many players, including Harmanpreet himself. His strong performance in the league has earned him the title of the highest-paid player in the recent auction, where the Soorma Hockey Club of Punjab secured his services for ₹78 lakh. Despite the significant financial gain, Harmanpreet has made it clear that the pressure of the price tag does not affect his approach to the game. "There’s no pressure. Every match is a responsibility, and I’ll approach the HIL with the same mindset," he said, demonstrating his professional approach and focus on delivering results.
Harmanpreet’s journey to becoming one of India’s most formidable hockey players was not planned from the start. Growing up with a love for various sports, Harmanpreet’s entry into hockey was more a matter of chance than choice. He recalls that a school coach introduced him to the sport, and from that moment, he was hooked. "Hockey chose me," he said, reflecting on how he instantly developed a passion for the game when he picked up a hockey stick at the age of seven or eight. This serendipitous beginning set the stage for a career that would take him to the highest levels of the sport.
Harmanpreet also credits much of his success to the guidance of Harendra Singh, the coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, who has played a pivotal role in shaping his career. His admiration for Singh extends beyond personal growth, as he is also confident about the future of women’s hockey in India. He expressed his belief in the talent emerging within the Indian women’s team, highlighting the skills of drag-flicker Deepika, who he believes is in excellent hands under the guidance of "Harry sir." Harmanpreet is optimistic that Indian women’s hockey is on the rise and that the future of the sport in India is bright, with players like Deepika poised to make an impact on the world stage.
As the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, Harmanpreet’s leadership extends beyond just his on-field performance. He serves as a role model for younger players, inspiring them with his work ethic, dedication, and passion for the game. His ultimate goal is to lead India to the top of the international hockey ladder, and with his talent and determination, the future looks promising for both him and the Indian team. Harmanpreet’s journey is a testament to his love for the sport and his unwavering commitment to ensuring that Indian hockey returns to its former glory.
