Not being part of the Gold winning team at the Asian Games motivated me to make a strong comeback: Mandeep Singh

New Delhi, 26 March 2015: Making his way back into the Indian Men National Hockey team post missing out on the Champions Trophy 2014, Mandeep Singh is seen training hard at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, preparing for the upcoming 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia. Proving his mettle at the Hero Hockey India League 2015, Mandeep Singh got noticed because of his speed and attack which he successfully matched with teammates Trent Mitton, Nicolas Wilson and Manpreet Singh. His fearless attacks and ability to penetrate the semi-circle got many to sit up and keep an eye on his performance during the League.

Speaking post a thorough practice session, Mandeep Singh said, “Previously, I was part of the World Cup squad in June last year and since then I missed out on the other important tournaments during the same year. I was unlucky that I was not part of the Gold winning team during the Asian Games but it motivated me to work even harder and make a strong comeback. Missing out on making it into the core team for the Asian Games, did not deter me to go back to the drawing board and understand where I was lacking. I worked hard on my loopholes and I was aware that the Hockey India League 2015 will be the platform for me to prove myself. Luckily I found my form and I gave my best during that period. I am happy that my hard work has paid off by making it back in the team.”

The 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup at Malaysia will be played from 5 April 2015 – 12 April 2015 and six teams will be seen fighting it out for the title. India will play their first match against Korea at 15.40 IST on 5 April 2015.