When the Indian men’s hockey team takes the field on August 15 for its World Cup opener at the historic Wagener Stadium in the Netherlands, two experienced pros will be rewriting records, hoping to end more than half a century of disappointment for the country.
As one of the seniormost players in the side with 288 international matches under his belt, Mandeep is aware of his role but insists on collective responsibility. “I believe all 18 players in a team have to play; everyone is aware of their individual responsibility and team target. “The wait for a World Cup medal has been longer, 51 years!
But if this is the last chance for us, we won’t waste it and try to bring back that medal. “Of course, it feels great to play my fourth World Cup, a very proud moment. But it is also a reminder that there is nothing to show for the three I have already played. It is a huge motivation, playing the fourth World Cup. Dhanraj sir did it, now we are going to do it. The dream now is to lift that Cup,” he insisted. Everyone has to perform; a senior or junior is just a tag that doesn’t matter on the field. That also explains his motivation to stay fit. “Most important is diet, then fitness to keep up with the youngsters. You need to take individual responsibility, go beyond the team plan and train on your own whenever possible. So we are aware of its importance and what it would mean for the game and for the country. Which is why we are not even thinking of the Asian Games or anything else at the moment; full focus is on the World Cup,” he declared.
It’s just been participation so far… we don’t have the one thing that we so desperately want,” Mandeep told The Hindu ahead of the World Cup. “My father said the same thing when I spoke to him – you are still one short. You have to do that to fight for your spot,” he said.