Inder Daggar grateful to be captaining Slough in their centenary season

Inder Daggar admits he is feeling the pressure but is grateful for the responsibility of skippering Slough HC through their highest league campaign since 1992, with the club also celebrating their centenary this weekend.

On Sunday, the club will play their opening match of the South Central Premier League, one step below the National League, against Henley. It promises to be a momentous occasion as Slough also commemorate their 100th anniversary with Daggar as captain.

The 29-year-old has personally thanked Lenni Bobzien, whom of which captained the Berkshire side for six years, for passing on the armband ahead of an exciting season of hockey and one that is hopefully undisturbed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’ve got to give a special thanks to Lenni, Harj Sandhu, and Ricky Juttla for this opportunity to be captain,” said Daggar. “This year, because of the England Hockey restructure, we find ourselves in the Premier League.

“It’s the highest Slough have been since 1992. At one stage, they were the most decorated club in England. But, as the game changed and Astro Turf was introduced, the players that came from Africa and India retired or dispersed to other clubs.

“Slough men used to be indoor and outdoor European champions, and National League title winners for many years throughout the 70s and 80s. So, realistically, we’re not far off from the glory days.”

On the club’s preparations for the new season, Daggar added: “They are going well. We’ve been training hard since mid-July, working on our fitness and our stick-and-ball. We’ve also managed to recruit some great players.

“We have strengthened the squad by welcoming back Param Bhangu and Mo Rahman to Slough, and welcoming aboard Nico Lazzatino from Argentina. Our defence is also strong with Jazz Rai and Monty Panesar, both have national league experience.

“It is a tough challenge ahead for the season, but I believe we have been given a golden ticket to bounce back into the National League. There is a lot of pressure, but we will take every game as it comes. The first three games are very important for us to make our mark.” Slough beat South Berkshire 3-1 in their last pre season fixture with goals from Floris V, Nico Lazzatino and Param Bhangu.