Source The Hindu
NEW DELHI — Veteran Indian midfielder Manpreet Singh is gearing up for his fourth FIH Hockey World Cup with a clear mission: to bring home the elusive world title and bring an end to India’s 51-year championship drought.
India’s solitary World Cup triumph dates back to 1975 in Kuala Lumpur. While the national team has enjoyed a renaissance in recent years—securing back-to-back Olympic bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris—the World Cup podium has remained out of reach. For the 34-year-old former captain, this tournament represents a defining opportunity to complete his medal collection in what could be his final appearance on the sport’s biggest stage.
“This World Cup means a lot to me because it’s my fourth edition. We have won back-to-back Olympic medals, but a World Cup medal is still missing. Every player dreams of having both,” Manpreet said in an interview with JioStar. “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.”
High Belief and Balanced Squad
Manpreet highlighted that the squad’s recent international success has instilled strong self-belief across the camp. Rather than being weighed down by expectations, the team is channeling that momentum into supreme focus.
The squad features a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent. Experienced leaders, including captain Harmanpreet Singh, forward Mandeep Singh, and Manpreet himself, have taken an active role in mentoring the younger players on tournament temperament and strategic discipline.
“Our squad has a good balance of youth and experience. We have shared our learnings with the younger players about what worked, what didn’t, and how to approach each match with full focus,” Manpreet added.
Tactical Discipline Over Reputations
Reflecting on lessons from past tournaments, the midfielder emphasized that India cannot afford complacency against any side, regardless of historical rivalries or world rankings.
Key tactical pillars highlighted ahead of the tournament include:
Defensive Solidity: Establishing a disciplined backline to provide a secure foundation for fast counter-attacks.
Collective Unity: Relying on cohesive teamwork and trust over individual heroics.
Game-by-Game Focus: Sticking strictly to match plans without getting distracted by opponents’ stature.
Manpreet also commended the leadership of captain Harmanpreet Singh, noting his drag-flicking prowess and tactical distribution from the back as crucial assets for the team’s ambitions.
Expressing full confidence in the squad’s preparation, the veteran voiced his belief that India has the caliber to reach the tournament decider and challenge for the ultimate prize as they kick off their campaign against Wales.
