Gurjant Singh, the unsung hero behind Harmanpreet Singh’s Olympic scoring prowess, played a pivotal role in India’s bronze medal triumph in Paris. As a forward, Gurjant’s primary responsibility was to create scoring opportunities for his team, which he did with aplomb.
Despite being a regular member of the Indian hockey squad, Gurjant’s journey has been marked by injuries. In 2019, he underwent surgery for a nose injury, followed by another surgery for a groin injury and sports hernia in 2020. These setbacks kept him out of action for extended periods.
Upon his return from the Tokyo Olympics, where he won a bronze medal, Gurjant faced another setback in the form of a hip injury. However, he has been injury-free since March 2022, which has allowed him to regain his form and earn the trust of chief coach Craig Fulton.
Under Fulton, Gurjant’s role has evolved. While he was primarily a forward in Tokyo, he now plays both as a midfielder and a striker. This versatility has proven invaluable, especially when injuries have forced players to switch positions.
In the Paris Olympics, Gurjant’s ability to play multiple positions was crucial. When defender Amit Rohidas was suspended for the semi-final against Germany, Gurjant seamlessly filled in as a midfielder. This allowed India to maintain their tactical balance and ultimately secure a place in the bronze medal match.
Gurjant’s contributions to the Indian hockey team cannot be overstated. His ability to create scoring opportunities, his versatility, and his resilience in the face of injuries have made him an indispensable member of the squad. As India looks to build on its recent success, Gurjant Singh will undoubtedly play a key role in their future endeavors.
