Indian Hockey Forward Gurjant Singh Ready for Debut at Asian Games

Gurjant Singh, a forward for the Indian men’s hockey team, is gearing up for his first appearance at the prestigious 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022. Making it into the 18-member squad, Gurjant is poised to showcase his skills and experience as he approaches this significant event with unwavering confidence.

The 28-year-old forward, who debuted his senior team during a Test Series against Belgium in 2017, unfortunately missed the previous edition of the Asian Games due to an injury. This time, however, he is honoured and thrilled to have the opportunity to represent his country in this marquee continental event.

Reflecting on his journey, Gurjant shared, “I missed the previous edition of the Asian Games due to an injury, and I had to follow the team from home, which was quite challenging for me. But, I am truly honoured and excited to have been given this chance to participate in such a prestigious event. Over the past few months, I have dedicated myself to improving my skills, and I eagerly look forward to giving my very best to help the team achieve our goal.” These sentiments were expressed on the Hockey India website.

Gurjant’s introduction to hockey came from his cousin brother, residing in Batala, approximately 40 km from Gurjant’s birthplace in Amritsar, Punjab. His journey continued as he honed his skills at the Chandigarh Hockey Academy. He played a pivotal role in India’s triumph at the 2016 FIH Junior Men’s World Cup in Lucknow. His contributions extend to the team’s remarkable achievements, including winning the bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, securing third place in the FIH Pro League 2022/23, claiming the silver medal at the Commonwealth Games 2022, and most recently, achieving glory at the Asian Champions Trophy 2023.

Regarding his role in the upcoming Asian Games, Gurjant remarked, “It has been an incredible journey thus far, and I’ve always received unwavering support from my teammates, for which I am profoundly grateful. Being part of the team for a considerable time has allowed me to grow and learn as a player in recent years. My role in the Asian Games will differ; it will involve taking on more responsibility, with a focus on executing my finishing skills to perfection.”

India finds itself grouped with Pakistan, Japan, Bangladesh, Singapore, and Uzbekistan in Pool A. Their campaign in the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 is set to commence against Uzbekistan on September 24, 2023.

With 91 international appearances under his belt, Gurjant emphasizes that the team’s primary focus will be on playing exceptional hockey and executing their game plans. He acknowledges the tough competition and the collective aim of winning the Gold. Gurjant and his team are ready to take on the challenge, dedicating their all to clinch the Gold and secure qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

As Gurjant concluded, he stressed the importance of not underestimating their opponents, even if they secured victories against some of them during the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai. He recognizes that quality teams await, making their commitment to playing excellent hockey all the more vital.