New Delhi: Boosted by a strong comeback in the three-match series against New Zealand last week, Indian hockey drag-flick specialist Rupinder Pal Singh stated the team is eager to carry forward the momentum into the upcoming Asian Games and win the gold medal.
“Personally for me, playing against a quality team like New Zealand who won the silver medal at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Gold Coast was very important. Since I had missed out all the action during the Champions Trophy, I had to find my rhythm ahead of the Asian Games in Jakarta,” Rupinder said.
The CWG in April was Rupinder’s last appearance for the Indian team at a major International event. A hamstring injury during the quadrennial event meant that he had to be rested for the Champions Trophy where the team finished runners up.
While the team was up against top teams in the world, Rupinder had to remain in the national camp and work on his fitness. “It is frustrating for any player to be watching the team play on TV but it was critical for me to undergo rehab in order to be match-fit and available for the Asian Games selections,” Rupinder expressed after the 3-0 series win against New Zealand. He also scored four goals in the three matches he played.
In order to gain momentum again, Rupinder appeared in four practice matches against Bangladesh early this month where he scored 10 goals through penalty corners and played two practice matches against South Korea where he scored one goal.
“I think having Bangladesh, South Korea and New Zealand visit us ahead of major tournaments was a blessing in disguise. The team tried out different combinations and tested different variations in converting PC,” said the 27-year-old from Punjab.
However, the team has returned home for a week-long break and will re-join the National Camp on August 1. Rupinder also added that they will further work on the specific areas to ensure they have left no stone unturned in their preparations for the Asian Games.
When we return to camp, we will watch videos from our matches against New Zealand and try and find out ways to improve further. We are eager to defend the Gold Medal at Asian Games in Jakarta,” he concluded.