13 January,2017 11:04 AM IST | | Ronald Chettiar
Defender Harmanpreet Singh, who shone in India's recent win in Junior Hockey World Cup, has many achievements to his name
Hockey, Dabang Mumbai drag-flicker, Defender, Harmanpreet Singh, India, win, Junior Hockey World Cup, achievements, Hockey News
Dabang Mumbai drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh
Defender Harmanpreet Singh, who shone in India's recent win in Junior Hockey World Cup, has many achievements to his name. Apart from being an Olympian, the 21-year-old has been the backbone of the senior team's defence. But despite all the glory, the drag-flicker is yet to add the Hockey India League title to his name, which according to him might change at the end of this season.
"Dabang Mumbai are favourites this season," said a confident Harmanpreet, when asked about his team's chances of winning the title in the upcoming edition which starts on January 21.
When asked what different the Mumbai-based team plan to do this season, having failed to make the final in the previous four editions, Harmanpreet said: "We plan to play simple hockey and make the most of the penalty corners. Though our aim is to win the title, we will be taking it match by match this season."
Harmanpreet, who made his debut for India during the 2014 Sultan Johor Cup in Malaysia, felt having a good strategy is a must going into the six-team tournament.
"We have a balanced team and have signed three new players - Dutch duo of Robbert Kemperman and Sander de Wijn, Belgian Emmanuel Stockbroekx for this season. But having a good strategy helps during the tournament."
The Amritsar-born player, who has been shuttling between the junior and senior squad said his experience in the Junior World Cup will stand him in good stead going into the hockey league.
"Playing in the Junior World Cup has helped improve my fitness.
"Our coach Harender Singh made us work a lot on it. I also got to play against some good players and it has helped me improve my game.
"I plan to carry the same momentum going into HIL," said the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited employee.
Talking about his individual goals, Harmanpreet revealed he plans to play simple hockey and improve on his goals tally this year.
With the kind of form the drag-flicker is in, both he and his team might just achieve their goals.
