Suraj Karkera, the 28-year-old hockey goalkeeper, has finally stepped into the spotlight after years of waiting in the wings. With India’s long-time custodian, P.R. Sreejesh, set to retire after the Paris Olympics, Karkera has seized the opportunity to prove his worth.
In the recent Asian Champions Trophy (ACT), Karkera shared goalkeeping duties with Krishan Pathak, showcasing their exceptional skills. They conceded only one goal in any match collectively, contributing significantly to India’s victory.
Karkera’s journey to the top has been marked by patience and perseverance. Transitioning from the junior setup to the senior team, he had to bide his time behind Sreejesh. Despite sporadic appearances, he remained a vital part of the core group, witnessing India’s Olympic bronze medal triumphs in Tokyo and Paris.
“Of course, it’s frustrating when you’re not part of the team,” Karkera admitted. “But I’ve been part of two Olympic cycles of a group that’s winning a lot of important medals. So, you know you’re also around that level.”
Karkera’s motivation stemmed from his teammates, childhood coaches, and inspiring stories of the armed forces. He found solace in reading books by Major General Ian Cardozo, a 1971 war hero who lost his leg but went on to command a battalion.
“Such things motivate me,” Karkera said. “It helps you to keep going, keep at it.”
Now, with a new Olympic cycle beginning, Karkera is eager to make the most of his opportunity. He will continue to compete with Pathak, his city-mate and fellow goalkeeper.
“We’ve known each other since 2015,” Karkera said. “We’ve been to each other’s houses in Mumbai. We spend a lot of good time together. He’s a fierce competitor. So yes, there will be competition, healthy competition.”
Karkera’s journey is a testament to the importance of patience, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in one’s abilities. As he steps into the spotlight, he is poised to make a significant contribution to Indian hockey in the years to come.
