"I dreamt of this day as a young boy" - Rajinder Singh expresses euphoria after debuting for Indian Hockey Team during India vs Germany series
Rising hockey talent Rajinder Singh wore a glaring smile on his face as he walked around the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium on Wednesday, October 23. The 21-year-old had just made his debut for the Indian Hockey Team during their bilateral tie against Germany.
The young midfielder moved among his teammates with a newfound spring in his step. He was no longer a young boy just trying to make it to the team. Instead, he came across as a player who is determined to win games for his country. Singh was in a conversation with Sportskeeda post his debut match.
"I am trying to put my emotions into words. I had dreamt of this day as a young boy. It is surreal to be a part of this Indian dressing room. Yes, it is upsetting that we could not win, but, I know how solid my team is. My goal is to play my part in helping India march to victories going forward," Rajinder Singh expressed.
The Punjab-born player belongs to the same village as one of India's hockey legends Sardar Singh. Rajinder looks up to his idol and is happy to have made him proud. Another thing that makes Rajinder proud is that he was able to make his debut at the iconic stadium in Delhi.
"Sardar paaji has been a role model and an inspiration right throughout my journey. I am deeply blessed to wear the same jersey he once wore. What also makes me happy is that I am playing at the Dhyan Chand Stadium. I remember playing the Nationals here and to make my debut on this iconic ground is special," he added.
"Playing for India at the 2026 CWG would have been an incredible experience" - Rajinder Singh opens up on hockey being excluded from the Glasgow event
In a highly disappointing development for the fans, hockey will not be a part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Much like the lovers of the sport, the players too have been left with a sombre feeling since the announcement.
Rajinder Singh feels the CWG would have been a great stage for young Indian players like him. However, he is not losing his sleep over it and intends to focus on what is next.
"A stage like CWG gives us young players a great platform to perform at and learn from. It is disappointing that we will not be in Glasgow. But, my focus is to just perform whenever I get to wear the Indian jersey. There will be other platforms such as the World Cup, which are equally important to me." Singh said in the same interview.
The rising star of Indian hockey, Rajinder Singh, has shown what he is capable of every time he has taken to the field. The road ahead for him with the Indian team will be a challenge he would happily want to take on with grit and confidence.