The entire nation is yet to come out of the euphoria of Indian men’s hockey team’s bronze medal winning performance at the Paris Olympics. www.telecomasia.net
But former captain and legendary full-back Pargat Singh is already looking ahead. While he is pleased with India’s back-to-back bronze medals at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, he believes it is time to move forward and groom fresh talent to replace the senior players in the coming years. www.telecomasia.net
The former India skipper stressed the importance of a long-term development strategy to ensure a steady pipeline of talent.
Singh specifically pointed out the urgent need to find successors for veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and current India captain Harmanpreet Singh. “Harmanpreet and Sreejesh made the difference in the Olympics. Replacements are needed,” he stated.
His main concern, however, is the diminishing pool of exceptional talent in the country. “What we had earlier is now less. I feel all state units need to work harder together,” he said. When asked if he was encouraged by how young players blended with the seniors at the Olympics, he remained cautious.
Finally, when asked which medal — Tokyo or Paris — was more satisfying, the former defensive stalwart said, “We wanted to improve from Tokyo, as progress is key, but both were satisfying in their own way.”
