Dominant Force: Midfielders driving the game - Hockey World Cup

India's Super-Seven Part 2

Hardik Singh: Coming from Punjab’s hockey belt Jalandhar, Hardik, who hails from a hockey family, is an asset in the midfield.

The 24-year-old was part of the Indian bronze medal winning team in Tokyo Olympics (2021) and also won silver medal in the last year held at the Commonwealth Games.  

His strength is his quick decision making even at the toughest situations.

“He is a young talent and has a great eye for the ball. He reads the opponent’s game so well that it helps him to anticipate their moves. You will see him intercepting the opponent’s passes on a number of occasions. His quick passing at the opponent’s striking area is a great advantage for a forward line,” says Sardar Singh.

Surinder Kumar: A seasoned player from Karnal, Haryana, Surinder is India’s one of the trusted defenders. The 29-year old has played in 174 international matches and was also part of the Tokyo-bound squad.

In the previous edition of the World Cup held in Bhubaneswar in 2018, India lost in the quarterfinals, but Surinder was a silver lining in India’s campaign. Despite losing to Netherlands (1-2), his performance got him ‘man of the match award’.  

“His tackling and man to man marking are his core strength,” says the veteran of over 300 international matches.

Manpreet Singh: He is one of the most experienced hands in the current Indian squad. Punjab’s Manpreet, 30, led the Indian team to a historic podium finish in the Tokyo Olympics.

With an experience of over 300 international matches, Manpreet’s role will be very crucial at midfield and can contribute largely in the play making.  

“Leading the side to an Olympic medal is a great achievement. His experience will be an asset for the side,” adds Sardar Singh.  

To be continued 3/3 (PR Sreejesh, Akashdeep Singh and Mandeep Singh)