India’s hockey team is gearing up for the crucial Asia Cup, but the well-being of star player Harmanpreet Singh remains a key concern following a series of recent injuries.
Harmanpreet’s Injury Streak
Harmanpreet Singh has faced a challenging year marked by multiple injuries. It began last year with a hamstring and lower back issue during the Asian Champions Trophy. This was followed by an ankle injury in the Hockey India League, further complicating his recovery.
More recently, he sustained a wrist injury in the FIH Pro League’s Bhubaneswar leg. Just last month, during the European swing of the league, he suffered a damaged finger tissue. Coach Craig Fulton described it vividly: “smashed with the ball on the finger that split his whole finger open and couldn’t hold a stick.” Fulton acknowledged, “He’s had a hard time.”
Asia Cup: A Top Priority
As India shifts its focus to the upcoming Asia Cup, a vital World Cup qualifier, two main points will be closely observed. First, the team needs to demonstrate that their recent seven defeats in eight Pro League matches were merely an anomaly.
Second, and perhaps more critically, is Harmanpreet’s ability to complete an entire tournament injury-free. This would be the first time in a year he could do so, and it’s a major focus as the Asia Cup is, in Fulton’s words, the “priority of the year.”
The Indispensable Force
Harmanpreet’s contribution to the team goes far beyond his scoring prowess. He was the player of the tournament at the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy, where he netted nearly one-third of India’s goals in their victorious campaign. In the two legs of the Pro League, he scored six more, making him the team’s joint-highest scorer.
Crucially, Harmanpreet anchors the defense with impressive composure, allowing players like Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh the freedom to attack. His signature aerial balls and sharp diagonal passes are vital in breaking down opposition defenses and creating offensive opportunities.
Coach Fulton highlighted his significance: “While you have him, he’s a powerful force. But at the same time, when you don’t have him for four games (like in the Pro League last month), it makes a big difference.”
Managing Workload and Succession
When questioned about managing Harmanpreet’s workload, coach Fulton indicated it wasn’t immediately necessary. He emphasized that the team has intensely focused on physical conditioning in recent training camps, aiming for better overall physical preparedness.
Another key discussion revolves around the team’s penalty corner strategies in Harmanpreet’s absence. Fulton acknowledged both a short-term need for support and a long-term view for a replacement, stating, “he is not going to play for the national team forever.”
The Search for New Talent
While Harmanpreet remains the primary drag-flicker, India is actively exploring other options. Amit Rohidas possesses a “flick and a hit,” having scored two penalty corner goals against Belgium. Jugraj Singh also has a “good flick” but needs to improve consistency.
Youngsters like Rajinder Singh, Sanjay, and Nilam Xess are also being evaluated. The India ‘A’ team, currently in Eindhoven, Netherlands, plays a crucial role in this talent search. Players like Varun Kumar and Amandeep Lakra are training well and being closely monitored for their penalty corner abilities.
Optimism for the Road Ahead
Coach Fulton expressed optimism about Harmanpreet’s current condition. “At least he’s injury-free from a finger point of view. He’ll have recovered nicely now,” he confirmed.
As the national team camp commences in Bengaluru for the Asia Cup, the focus will be on ensuring Harmanpreet’s full fitness. The team aims to maximize their star player’s impact while concurrently developing additional options to strengthen their penalty corner attack for upcoming tournaments.
- Harmanpreet Singh has faced a string of injuries, impacting his playing time.
- The Asia Cup is a critical World Cup qualifier and the team’s top priority.
- Harmanpreet is crucial for both offense and defense, far beyond just goals.
- India is actively scouting and developing other drag-flicking options for support and the future.
- Coach Craig Fulton is confident in Harmanpreet’s recovery and the team’s physical readiness.
The team is hopeful that Harmanpreet’s return to full fitness will coincide with a strong performance in the Asia Cup, setting a positive tone for their future campaigns.
