Hockey gave me an identity

1998 Asian Games gold medallist

Hockey opened a window for me to the wide world, in sport and beyond. It also opened many doors for me, as a reward for all the effort put in when playing for India. Getting the opportunity to represent a nation is a matter of honour for every Indian in any walk of life. We sportspersons are lucky to be able to give back to India by doing an activity we are passionate about.

Wearing the national colour gives me enormous pride. I hope fans and followers saw that emotion in my game.

It is said that studies create opportunities for a career. I feel sport helped me graduate in life and does the same for others, however poor or humble your background is. Hockey gave me an identity. Learning to excel in my sport gave me the confidence to change my life, by playing alongside and observing educated people.

The magazine captured the milestones in my sporting career, from the Allwyn Asia Cup in New Delhi onwards. Indian hockey and world hockey appreciates Sportstar’s effort to take the sport to the people.