Manpreet Singh will make 130 million Indians proud at Tokyo 2020: Harendra Singh
The former hockey coach of India hailed the leadership skills of Manpreet Singh.
Manpreet Singh, captain of the Indian men’s hockey team at Tokyo 2020, will be leading India's charge to win their first medal in the sport since the gold at Moscow 1980.
The 29-year-old is one of the most experienced players in the squad, alongside PR Sreejesh, and is playing in his third consecutive Olympics.
Harendra Singh, the former India coach, highlighted the fact that Manpreet is one of the coolest leaders in the sport as he does not buckle under pressure.
“Manpreet is a fine leader who gels with all the players, he knows how to keep his cool under any circumstances. Tokyo will be his third Olympic Games and so, he is veteran. Playing in three Olympics is not an easy task. I am sure he will lead this team from the front and make 130 crore Indians proud,” said Singh to Olympics.com
Meanwhile, PR Sreejesh will also be plying his trade in his third Olympic Games at Tokyo 2020 and the veteran custodian will continue to be a vital asset of the Indian men’s hockey team.
Harendra Singh stated that Sreejesh is one of the most seasoned goalkeepers of the game and his telepathic understanding with the rest of the defenders will benefit India at Tokyo 2020.
“Sreejesh is one of most seasoned custodians under the bar and he knows how to keep cool thanks to good communication. His understanding with the defenders is something beyond imagination. I am sure his experience will surely pay dividends in this edition of the Olympics,” said Singh.
India men's hockey team began their campaign with a 3-2 win over New Zealand before losing 1-7 to Australia. India then beat Spain 3-0.
Singh mentioned that India have been in a good run of form having been undefeated in Europe against Germany and Great Britain having faced them twice each in February-March. In April, they toured Argentina where they played two FIH Pro League games and four practice games where they lost just once.
When will India men's hockey team seen in action next?
The Manpreet Singh-led side will be next seen in action against defending champions Argentina in a Pool A contest on Thursday 29th July.