By Diptayan HazraNew Delhi [India], December 12 (ANI): Harmanpreet Singh, captain of the Indian hockey crew, has a transparent imaginative and prescient for the longer term: successful the World Cup.
“Our major target is the World Cup. It’s been a long time since we won the World Cup, so our main focus is to win the World Cup,” Singh informed ANI.
The path to this aim entails a number of essential milestones, beginning with the Hockey India League (HIL). Singh believes the HIL will play a pivotal position within the crew’s preparation, offering momentum for the challenges forward. Following the HIL, the crew will face back-to-back matches within the Pro League, that are important for his or her improvement. Another important milestone is the Asia Cup, the place their main goal will likely be to win and qualify for the World Cup.
This 12 months, Singh made headlines by becoming a member of Soorma Hockey Club for a record-breaking Rs78 lakh, the best bid within the league thus far.
Expressing his pleasure, he stated, “I am feeling very good, no doubt. The HIL is back after a long time, and it’s great for me to participate. I am very happy. There are a lot of players from the Hockey India League who have a bright future now. The Rs78 lakh bid makes me very happy because these things also help you financially. So yes, I am very excited that the Hockey India League is starting again, and I am a part of Soorma Hockey Club.”Singh additionally highlighted his position and contributions to Soorma Hockey Club, underlining his management and expertise.
“What I have been doing–my performance since I started playing hockey, my style, and my responsibilities–I will continue to do the same. I am confident that all the players with me, including the experienced ones and the youngsters, will give their best. I hope Soorma Hockey Club can win the title this time,” he added.
Balancing his roles as crew captain, penalty nook specialist, and defender, Singh handles the calls for with maturity and expertise.
“The titles may differ, but the role remains the same. It’s about how you play hockey and plan. My mindset is focused on my responsibilities, both individual and as a leader. I aim to keep all players in a positive frame of mind and boost their confidence before matches. Communication and motivation are key before the match. During the match, there are ups and downs, but instead of reacting to mistakes, it’s about planning the next move. It’s essential to ensure no one regrets their mistakes but learns to handle them, keeping the team united,” he stated.
Singh additionally shared how he motivates the crew throughout robust occasions.
“Maturity and experience are crucial. I have been with the national team for almost 10 years now. What I learnt from my seniors–how to manage situations–I continue to apply. There are young players and experienced players, each with a unique mindset. Understanding how they will react to what you say is vital. I communicate with them and, if necessary, adopt a tough approach because I know that’s what will bring out their best. Boosting players according to the situation is essential in a team game where mindsets vary,” he stated.
On management, Singh emphasised steady studying: “In leadership, it’s about applying what I’ve learnt today to improve tomorrow. I’ve gained a lot from my mistakes. Responsibilities include strengthening the team, introducing new ideas, collaborating with the coach and players, and fostering strong bonds. When performing, it’s important to play as a team, not individually. As a leader, you set an example for others to follow and motivate them to push themselves.”Reflecting on the emotional highs of successful bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris, Singh stated, “Both medals have their unique memories. Winning in Tokyo after such a long gap was a proud moment for us. Many players were emotional. The Paris Olympics were equally inspiring because we defeated top teams, including Australia. The love we received and the viewership were overwhelming. Winning a medal after 52 years is a big achievement for us. Both have different histories but are equally significant.”Harmanpreet Singh emerged because the main goal-scorer in Paris, netting 10 objectives in eight matches, surpassing Australia’s Blake Govers, who scored seven. (ANI)