Hockey stars Manpreet, Savita named for Arjuna

Experienced midfielder Dharamvir Singh, Manpreet Singh and India women’s team goalkeeper Savita have been recommended for the Arjuna Award while Sanggai Ibemhal Chanu and former mens captain Bharat Chetri have been recommended for the Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement, Hockey India announced on Thursday.

Commenting on the recommendations, Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General of Hockey India, said: “We are happy to endorse these hockey players who have immensely contributed to Indian hockey.

“They have proven their worth with significant performances that have elevated the Indian team to new heights. They have donned the India colours with pride and have given it their all to help the team win several accolades within the country and internationally.

“We at Hockey India are proud of their achievements and are happy to recommend their names for the National awards,” he added.

Dharamvir Singh from Punjab formed the midfield in the Indian team and was part of the Gold Medal feat at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea.

He was also part of the team that participated at the 2012 London Olympics and represented the country at the 2014 men’s hockey World Cup in Hague.

Manpreet Singh captained the Indian squad in the absence of PR Sreejesh who was injured last year. Manpreet was part of the Asia Cup success where India beat Malaysia to lift the title. He also led the India team to a bronze medal at the Odisha Men’s Hockey World League Final Bhubaneswar 2017.