Manpreet Singh has officially become India's most capped international hockey player, surpassing Dilip Tirkey's record of 412 caps during India's 3-1 victory over Germany. The 33-year-old, a two-time Olympic bronze medalist, also opened the scoring in that match with a field goal. Speaking to the media a day after his record-breaking feat, Manpreet outlined his remaining ambitions, including a medal at the FIH World Cup—India has not won a World Cup medal since 1975—the Asian Games, and staying fit for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Unfinished Business
Manpreet expressed that his career is far from complete. "Have I achieved my dream of being a star? Maybe not really. There is a lot more to do still, there is the World Cup, Asian Games, then LA. So, yeah a long way to go still," he said. He emphasized his desire to inspire the next generation, much like former player Pargat Singh inspired him. "I want to leave a legacy, do enough for the next generation to want to be like Manpreet, play like Manpreet, win like Manpreet, be famous like Manpreet. I want to be a role model for the youngsters, as much for the game as for my fitness. That is very important for youngsters to understand that Manpreet at 33 is as fit as anyone younger. Just how everyone talks about Virat Kohli's fitness and training and diet at 36, I would want kids to talk about Manpreet's fitness and training," he added.
Role as Senior Player
Being the most capped and senior-most player does not change his approach, Manpreet noted. "It is a big honour, playing 413 matches for the country over 15 years and I am proud of it, but it does not change anything. I have always believed in working as a team. As a senior, it is my responsibility to lift a youngster if he makes a mistake or is not feeling confident, help him come back to form," he said. He stressed that maintaining fitness and motivation over such a long career requires support from teammates, coaching staff, and the federation, but added that experience does not mean he stops listening to others.
Career Highs and Lows
Manpreet identified the 2012 London Olympics, where India finished 12th without winning a single match, as the lowest point of his career. Conversely, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medal stands as the highest point so far. "Highest point of my career would undoubtedly be the Tokyo Olympics bronze medal. Even though we won again in Paris, Tokyo will always be special because it ended the medal drought for Indian hockey. It was a dream come true after 41 years. Every athlete dreams of an Olympic medal but for us, the glory days of Indian hockey was something we had only heard of, it was something the whole country had been waiting for so long," he reflected.
