“There is no longer a senior-junior divide within the Indian team” – Sardar Singh shares insights into the evolution of Indian Hockey [Exclusive]
Former national captain and a legend of Indian Hockey Sardar Singh has seen it all. He has watched India rise from the depths of frustrating defeats to becoming a dominant global force, all within the last two decades. The Indian hockey team witnessed a golden era between 1928 and 1956 before it all started to change.
Post the 80s, there came a lengthy lull where India became a mere pushover for decades. However, things are back on the rise. Having won two consecutive Olympic bronze medals, India is closing in on returning to its mightiest self. For Sardar, India moving away from a ‘senior-junior dynamic’ has been the game-changer.
It might appear intangible on the outside, but the change has transformed the very foundation of Indian hockey. Sardar Singh, in conversation with Sportskeeda, during the recent HIL 2024 player auction, said:
"We no longer have any 'senior-junior' dynamic in the Indian Team. Everyone can speak their mind. We were lagging behind since the last 40 years not because of a lack of talent, but, we were still wrapping our heads around as to how to play together as a team. The friendships that we have now formed off-field has brought us closer as a team when on it."
The 38-year-old went on to further open up on how 'states' and 'regions' no longer dictate the culture of Indian Hockey. Sardar also shared his views on the growing love for hockey players in the country.
"Today, at the national camp, you will never see players bonding only with their state-mates. Everyone can be seen cheerfully putting in the hard yards together without any boundaries. As a result, we are a force once again and have gained such attention and recognition. When you perform and achieve, people want to get attached to you and extend love," Shardar added.
Our refined and evolved training facilities have transformed us into world beaters, says Sardar Singh
It is paramount in sports that the athletes are provided with world-class facilities to aid their success. One might possess immense skill, but a lack of training facilities can seriously hinder a team's fortunes. Sardar Singh feels this is exactly where Indian hockey has grown leaps and bounds.
"For a nation to excel, training and facilities are of the utmost importance. Indian hockey now has the best of coaches, equipment and training camps. Our refined and evolved training facilities has transformed us into world beaters. With the HIL coming back, a lot more rising stars will emerge. Indian hockey is on an ascendance with a bright road ahead," concluded Singh.
Hockey is ingrained in the hearts of millions across the country. Sardar Singh's words are a beacon of hope and will inspire optimism among them all. It shall also motivate countless other Indians to embrace the sport and follow the rise of the Indian hockey team.