The Indian hockey team’s recent Olympic success has dispelled the notion that they concede late goals, according to legendary hockey player Zafar Iqbal. The Harmanpreet Singh-led side has emerged as a formidable force in all aspects of the game, he believes.
Iqbal, a gold medalist at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and captain of the 1982 Asian Games silver-winning Indian team, is optimistic about the sport’s resurgence in India following the bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris.
“The general impression before was that India is a team that concedes goals late in games, but that has changed now,” Iqbal said. “We are one of the best teams in the world in all aspects.”
Iqbal recalls the immense popularity of hockey in his era, with events like the Nehru Gold Cup and Asian Games drawing large crowds. He hopes that the recent Olympic success will reignite the passion for the sport in the country.
The upcoming India vs. Germany matches at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi on October 23 and 24 have generated excitement among hockey enthusiasts. Iqbal believes that Germany is a tough opponent, but he is confident that the Indians will be motivated to perform well.
“The facilities are top-notch, and I am sure the game will be filled with riveting action,” he added. “I would like to take this opportunity to invite hockey fans to turn up in numbers to support our team.”
Another hockey legend, Harbinder Singh, is equally upbeat about the return of big matches to the national capital. He recalls playing for the national team at Shivaji Stadium in 1972, where the stadium was packed to capacity.
“I believe a lot of fans will turn up to cheer for India and Germany as well,” said Singh, a gold winner at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and bronze medalist at the 1968 Mexico and 1972 Munich Games. “They will be witnessing a high-level international match after a decade after all.”
With the matches against Olympic silver winners Germany, international hockey is returning to New Delhi after a decade. The last time India played at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium was during the Hockey World League Final Men’s Round 4 in January 2014.
Last year, Chennai hosted the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy, while Ranchi organized the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy and the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier. In November 2024, Rajgir, a city in Bihar, will host the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy.
India’s Olympic hockey medals are a testament to the country’s rich history in the sport. The team clinched its first-ever Olympic gold medal in 1928, paving the way for many more triumphs in subsequent Olympics. Dhyan Chand emerged as the star with 15 goals.
Singh believes that high-profile matches should be hosted at various venues across the country, giving people from all regions a chance to witness the team live in action and grow the following for the sport.
