Harman on a mission: Indian skipper sets eyes on HIL crown

Skipper to “Sarpanch”, the Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh, is known by many names in the sporting circles. With two Olympic bronze medals in his bag, he has now embarked on a new mission: securing the Hockey India League (HIL) title for his side, the Soorma Hockey Club.

Harman is splitting his time between commercial shoots and hitting the practice turf come rain or shine. The ace drag flicker, one of India’s most appreciated hockey players, will captain the Soorma Hockey Club for the HIL, set to commence on December 29.

Chandigarh has become the training pit-stop for his side before they leave for Birsa Munda Stadium, Rourkela, one the two HIL venues. The skipper not only expressed joy at representing a club that traces its roots back to Punjab but also claimed that the event will be the biggest showpiece for Indian hockey.

“It will be a great platform for us to get some matches under our belt. The revamped HIL will also give an opportunity to youngsters to get international exposure and play alongside top Indian and foreign players. I am excited to be picked by a Punjab-based team and carrying on my tag of ‘sarpanch’ at this event,” the Indian skipper said during his stop in Chandigarh.

When asked about his aggressive playing style, the otherwise jovial Harman added, “See that is something different. For those 60 minutes, I am a different person aiming to give my best.”

He was also thrilled to be back competing with other Indian legends, saying, “It’s amazing to reunite with Sardar Singh paji, Harjeet Singh (with whom he played the Junior World Cup), Gurjant Singh (with whom he played at the Olympics) and others. Playing hockey makes me go from calm to aggressive and vice versa in a split second,”

Looking at the past chemistry as an advantage heading into the HIL, Harman said, “Many of us have been playing together from the academy days, which will be reflected during our matches. Also, it will be my responsibility to carry the baton and encourage the juniors to play at their best.”

The skipper said his team had a good mix of experience and youthful energy, but noted that senior players from India and other countries will be playing an important role in steering them to victories. “We will be entering the league with a lot of experience and with the aim of winning the title. And, every player will have a big role to play,” he added.

Platform to spot ‘future’: Sardar

From working his magic on the field in previous editions of the league to taking on the role of a mentor, former Indian skipper Sardar Singh’s association with the league has been long.

He has high expectations from the league. “The Hockey India’s call to include four Under-21 players in each team is really appreciable. The players playing in this league can emerge as the torchbearers of Indian hockey in future. The likes of Haramanpreet, Mandeep Singh, I and many others were able to showcase their potential through the same league,” he said.

The 38-year-old Soorma Club mentor also put in his weight behind Harman to lead the side well. “He is currently the best Indian player, fit to play the role and very sharp in his technique. He has the experience of playing with Vivek Sagar Prasad and Gurjant Singh in the Olympics, and also played among other international and Indian star players. So, a lot depends on him to take out the best from each of the players,” he added.

The side will play their first match against Tamil Nadu Dragons on December 29, followed by matches against Uttar Pradesh Rudras on January 2, Vendata Kalinga Lancers on January 5, Delhi SG Pipers on January 6, Hyderabad Toofans on January 11, Team Gonasika on January 14, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers on January 17 and other league games at Rourkela.