Manpreet Singh (ANI Photo)
India midfielder Manpreet Singh is determined to make his fourth FIH Hockey World Cup a memorable one as the team bids to end a 51-year wait for its second men’s world title. India’s only World Cup triumph came in 1975, and Manpreet believes the current side has the experience, talent and belief to finally add another title to the country’s illustrious hockey history. For the veteran midfielder, 34, the tournament carries an added personal significance.
With India having won back-to-back Olympic medals, he is desperate to add a World Cup medal to that collection, with the possibility that this could be his final appearance at the global showpiece.
We have learned from past editions that you cannot take any team lightly in a tournament like this,” he said. We don’t get caught up in the opposition’s name or reputation,” he said. “I am confident that we will reach the final of the World Cup,” Manpreet said.
“For me, this could be my last World Cup, so I am approaching it with that mindset. I am determined to achieve what we haven’t yet. The team has the experience and the talent to go all the way. “I have full faith in this team. Everyone is excited and ready for the World Cup. “Our squad has a good balance of youth and experience. Senior players like our captain Harmanpreet Singh , Mandeep Singh , and myself have shared our learnings with the younger players about what worked, what didn’t, and how to approach each match with full focus. “Regardless of who we play, whether it’s Pakistan or any other team, we stick to our game plan. “The energy in the camp is high, and every member of the squad is determined to achieve something special. I fully believe we will make it to the final.”