Veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh aims for historic World Cup win for India
India’s midfield star Manpreet Singh says the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup could be his last and hopes to add a title to the nation’s 51-year wait.
Midfielder Manpreet Singh, aged 34, is preparing for what could be his final appearance at the FIH Hockey World Cup, hoping to help India capture its first men’s title since the 1975 triumph. He notes that while the team has recently earned back-to-back Olympic medals, a World Cup trophy remains missing from its honours. According to Singh, the squad’s blend of seasoned players like captain Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh with emerging talent provides the balance needed for a deep run.
He emphasizes the importance of treating every match with equal focus, maintaining fitness, and relying on a strong defensive structure to enable attacking play. Singh also says the team will not be distracted by the reputation of opponents, including traditional rival Pakistan. The campaign kicks off with a match against Wales on August 15, and Singh expresses confidence that India will reach the final.
Why it matters
India aims to end a five-decade World Cup drought, and a senior player’s motivation could shape the team’s performance.
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