Manpreet Singh's last dance? India star eyes World Cup medal missing from his cabinet
Manpreet Singh has seen it all when it comes to Indian hockey. He was the captain when India won the bronze medal at Tokyo Olympics and then played a big role in the team going back-to-back in Paris. But there is one medal that is missing from his cabinet and that is what he is chasing at the moment.
With India set to start their campaign against Wales on August 15, Manpreet has set his priorities straight in what will be his fourth World Cup. He wants the team to finish in the medal spots.
“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. 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. The team has the experience and the talent to go all the way. We have prepared well, and the belief is high. Indian sports are rising across the board, and hockey is no different. We have won Olympic medals, and now it’s time to go all the way in the World Cup,” Manpreet told JioHotstar in an interview.
India will be coming into the World Cup campaign after a three-day camp at Paddy Upton’s facility at the Swiss Alps. Manpreet feels that the team is buzzing but admitted that they will be taking things one game at a time.
“I have full faith in this team. Everyone is excited and ready for the World Cup. We have learned from past editions that you cannot take any team lightly in a tournament like this.”
“Our squad has a good balance of youth and experience. Senior players like our captain Harmanpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, and myself have shared our learnings with the younger players about what worked, what didn’t, and how to approach each match with full focus.”
“Every match in this tournament is important. We need to go in with the right mindset, respect every opponent, and play to win. Our coach has emphasised fitness because we know that being fit helps us compete against the best. We have also worked hard on our defence. A solid defence gives us the confidence to attack and take control of the game,” said Manpreet.
‘WE CAN REACH THE FINAL’
Since winning the World Cup in 1975, India have failed to reach the semi-finals of any edition. The Indian team will be aiming to break that 51-year-old jinx and Manpreet feels they have the team to make it to the final of the competition.
“I am confident that we will reach the final of the World Cup. The team is playing with great belief and giving 100 per cent in every single training session. The energy in the camp is high, and every member of the squad is determined to achieve something special. I fully believe we will make it to the final,” said Manpreet.
India will be in group D along with Wales, England and Pakistan.
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