Learned a lot from Sreejesh and Harmanpreet: Hardik Singh

Indian hockey star Hardik Singh has established himself as a vital player in the national team, and now, as captain, he’s gearing up to lead his squad to new heights. Hardik opened up about his aspirations, leadership style, and the future of hockey in India.

Reflecting on India’s back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics, Hardik emphasized their significance. “Winning a medal after 52 years is monumental,” he said. “Making it to the Olympics itself is an achievement, and securing consecutive medals is even greater. While our goal was gold, sports can be unpredictable. We gave it our all, and now we shift focus to the 2026 World Cup and Asian Games.”

As a captain, Hardik draws from his experiences under former leaders like PR Sreejesh, Manpreet Singh, and Harmanpreet Singh. “I’ve learned to handle juniors, interact with seniors, and perform under pressure,” he shared. “These lessons, combined with support from the coaching staff, have shaped my leadership approach. Many of my UP Rudras teammates have played alongside or against me internationally, fostering a strong team harmony.”

Hardik also spoke passionately about the growth of hockey in India. While traditionally strong in states like Punjab, Odisha, and Jharkhand, he believes the sport’s appeal extends far beyond. “Hockey is loved across India and the world, but more states need to take initiatives like Hockey India,” he said, citing efforts by organizations like the Singhania family and Yadu Sports. “With better investment and promotion, especially after an Olympic gold, hockey’s popularity will soar.”

On the future of the Hockey India League (HIL), Hardik expressed optimism. “Hockey is gaining popularity, and during the Olympics, we saw how much love the sport receives. Expanding the HIL to 12 or even 20 franchises is possible, but the league’s growth must align with the sport’s long-term progress.”

Hardik also shared his approach to mentoring young players like Sharda Nand Tiwari. “Leadership is about treating everyone equally, a lesson I learned from Sardar Singh,” he said. “It’s important to check in with teammates, support them through challenges, and bring out the best in each player. A leader’s job isn’t just about personal performance; it’s about elevating the whole team.”

As India eyes greater success, Hardik Singh’s vision and leadership could pave the way for a golden era in Indian hockey.


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