Harmanpreet Singh makes India proud with 250 international hockey caps in Rajgir
Hockey India has celebrated Harmanpreet Singh’s incredible achievement of playing 250 international matches for India. The talented drag flicker reached this milestone during a high-stakes match against Malaysia at the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, on Thursday.
Harmanpreet, who debuted in 2015, received a special jersey from India’s chief coach Craig Fulton. Speaking after the match, he said, “This is a very emotional moment for me. I’ve received so much love from hockey fans all over, and I am thankful for their support. Playing in front of my home crowd makes it even more special.” Harmanpreet looked proud and grateful as fans cheered loudly at the Rajgir Sports Complex.
The hockey star shared that these last few years have been truly memorable. Not only has he helped India win Olympic medals, but his daughter also comes to some matches and cheers him on. Harmanpreet expressed his desire to keep contributing to Indian hockey’s legacy.
Since his debut in 2015, Harmanpreet has been a key player in India’s defense. He helped India win important medals, including gold at the 2015 Junior Asia Cup and the 2016 Junior World Cup. He also earned silver at the 2016 Champions Trophy in London, gold at the 2017 Asia Cup in Bangladesh, and bronze at the 2018 Asian Games.
Harmanpreet has been part of India’s Olympic journey too. He competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics and earned his first Olympic medal when India finished third in Tokyo 2020. Recently, he captained India to a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, continuing his incredible Olympic success.
In 2023, he was part of the Indian team that won gold at the Asian Games and led the team to victory at the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey congratulated Harmanpreet, saying, “Playing for India 250 times is a huge achievement. I’m very happy he achieved this milestone in his home country, especially during such a big tournament. Harmanpreet’s efforts have brought great results for India. I hope he continues to inspire young players and wishes him all the best for the future.”
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh also praised Harmanpreet, calling him a proud representative of India. “Not many players reach 250 caps for India, and Harmanpreet has shown incredible dedication and passion. He’s given his best every time he stepped on the field,” he said.
Harmanpreet Singh’s journey showcases the rise of Indian hockey on the world stage. His perseverance and talent continue to inspire fans and aspiring players alike.
