Aichi-Nagoya [Japan], September 26 (ANI): Indian hockey crew’s defender Sanjay reached a major milestone on Saturday as he accomplished 100 senior worldwide appearances in the course of the crew’s fourth Pool A match in opposition to hosts Japan on the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026.
The 25-year-old defender has established himself as an essential member of the Indian crew since making his senior worldwide debut in 2023. His journey on the highest stage started on a memorable be aware, with Sanjay taking part in a job in India’s gold-medal-winning marketing campaign on the Hangzhou Asian Games that yr.
A yr later, Sanjay added one other main achievement to his rising checklist of accomplishments when he was a part of the Indian squad that secured a second successive Olympic bronze medal on the Paris 2024 Games. The milestone of 100 worldwide appearances now provides one other important chapter to a profession that has already been marked by success on the largest phases.
Sanjay was additionally a part of the Indian crew that lifted the Asian Champions Trophy in 2024, additional strengthening his file in continental competitions. In 2025, he continued to contribute to the crew’s success as India received the Asia Cup.
Known for his defensive skills and composure on the sphere, Sanjay has steadily grown in stature inside the Indian setup since making his worldwide debut. His performances and consistency have additionally earned recognition off the sphere, with the defender being conferred the distinguished Arjuna Award in 2024.
Reaching the 100-cap landmark on the Asian Games, the place his worldwide journey started with an Asian Games gold medal three years in the past, makes the event notably important for Sanjay, who acquired a commemorative T-shirt from the crew’s Chief Coach, Craig Fulton.Â
“Reaching 100 senior international appearances is a significant milestone, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Sanjay on this achievement. I am confident Sanjay will continue to grow, contribute and inspire the next generation of Indian hockey players,’ said Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey.
Hockey India Secretary General, Bhola Nath Singh, also praised Sanjay on his 100-cap milestone, saying, “On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate Sanjay on finishing a century of worldwide appearances. From turning into an Asian Games champion to successful an Olympic bronze medal, Sanjay has embraced each alternative to characterize India with delight. We are delighted to have fun this particular milestone and want him many extra memorable moments within the nationwide colors.” (ANI)