The Indian men's hockey team captain Manpreet Singh and three other players have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of a national camp in Bengaluru, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) said on Friday.

Besides Manpreet, defender Surender Kumar, Jaskaran Singh and drag-flicker Varun Kumar have also tested positive for the deadly virus.

"I am self quarantined on the SAI campus and I am very happy with the way SAI authorities have handled the situation...I am doing fine and hope to recover very soon," Manpreet said in the statement issued by SAI.

The players tested positive after returning to the national hockey camp at the SAI South Centre in Bengaluru following a month-long break.

They were earlier stranded at the centre for over two months when a national lockdown was imposed to contain the virus.

The Indian men's hockey team captain Manpreet Singh and three other players have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of a national camp in Bengaluru, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) said on Friday.

The Indian men's hockey team captain Manpreet Singh and three other players have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of a national camp in Bengaluru, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) said on Friday. Besides Manpreet, defender Surender Kumar, Jaskaran Singh and drag-flicker Varun Kumar have also tested positive for the deadly virus. "I am self quarantined on the SAI campus and I am very happy with the way SAI authorities have handled the situation...I am doing fine and hope to recover very soon," Manpreet said in the statement issued by SAI. The players tested positive after returning to the national hockey camp at the SAI South Centre in Bengaluru following a month-long break. They were earlier stranded at the centre for over two months when a national lockdown was imposed to contain the virus.

Indian hockey captain Manpreet, 3 other players test positive for COVID-19

Manpreet Singh has become the first Indian to win the international hockey federation's player of the year award.

The captain of the Indian men's team won 35.2 per cent of the combined votes and beat Belgium's Arthur van Doren and Lucas Vila of Argentina to the coveted honour.

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Congratulations to 2019 FIH Player of the year (Men) - <a href="https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manpreetpawar07</a> 
 
Vote results: 
Manpreet Singh (IND) -35.2% of combined votes 
Arthur Van Doren (BEL) -19.7% of combined votes 
Lucas Vila (ARG) -11.7 % of combined votes 
 
Breakdown: <a href="https://t.co/xmsM0jS82C">https://t.co/xmsM0jS82C</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HockeyStarsAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HockeyStarsAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/Zvq3TiPzcg">pic.twitter.com/Zvq3TiPzcg</a>
— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIH_Hockey/status/1227932345950445569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 27-year-old Singh had a stellar year in 2019, he led the team to victory in the FIH series finals and subsequent Olympic qualifiers against Russia where India secured a spot at the Tokyo 2020 games.

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2019 FIH Player of the Year (Men) - Goes to... <a href="https://t.co/4kWFttbIVl">pic.twitter.com/4kWFttbIVl</a>
— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIH_Hockey/status/1227926753957613568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Singh made his senior debut in 2011 and he has been a mainstay in the team since&nbsp;winning 263 international caps.

The midfielder was part of the squad that won the gold medal at the 2014 Asian games.

<h6><img alt="Manpreet Singh | AFP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fb7d9aa-df06-484d-b302-ed7b23175540" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_26.jpg" /> 
Manpreet Singh | AFP</h6>

Singh- who was named captain in &nbsp;2017 has also represented the country at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

He will now turn his focus on this year's games where India will be looking to win their first medal since 1980.

Meanwhile, Eva de Goede of the Netherlands was awarded the women's prize for the second year in a row.

Manpreet Singh has become the first Indian to win the international hockey federation's player of the year award. The captain of the Indian men's team won 35.2 per cent of the combined votes and beat Belgium's Arthur van Doren and Lucas Vila of Argentina to the coveted honour.

Manpreet Singh has become the first Indian to win the international hockey federation's player of the year award. The captain of the Indian men's team won 35.2 per cent of the combined votes and beat Belgium's Arthur van Doren and Lucas Vila of Argentina to the coveted honour. Congratulations to 2019 FIH Player of the year (Men) - @manpreetpawar07 Vote results: Manpreet Singh (IND) -35.2% of combined votes Arthur Van Doren (BEL) -19.7% of combined votes Lucas Vila (ARG) -11.7 % of combined votes Breakdown: https://t.co/xmsM0jS82C#HockeyStarsAwards pic.twitter.com/Zvq3TiPzcg — International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) February 13, 2020 × The 27-year-old Singh had a stellar year in 2019, he led the team to victory in the FIH series finals and subsequent Olympic qualifiers against Russia where India secured a spot at the Tokyo 2020 games. 2019 FIH Player of the Year (Men) - Goes to... pic.twitter.com/4kWFttbIVl — International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) February 13, 2020 × Singh made his senior debut in 2011 and he has been a mainstay in the team since winning 263 international caps. The midfielder was part of the squad that won the gold medal at the 2014 Asian games. Manpreet Singh | AFP Singh- who was named captain in 2017 has also represented the country at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics. He will now turn his focus on this year's games where India will be looking to win their first medal since 1980. Meanwhile, Eva de Goede of the Netherlands was awarded the women's prize for the second year in a row.

Manpreet Singh becomes first Indian to win FIH hockey Player of the Year award

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-to-over-1480-japan-confirms-first-death-280603" hreflang="en">China's coronavirus death toll rises to over 1,480; Japan confirms first death</a>

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China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to&nbsp;coronavirus&nbsp;with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-curbs-trumps-ability-to-wage-war-with-iran-280607" hreflang="en">US Senate curbs Trump's ability to wage war with Iran</a>

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The US Senate has passed the Iran war powers resolution. The&nbsp;bill seeks to prevent&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;from waging war with Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-why-hafiz-saeeds-conviction-is-an-eyewash-280481" hreflang="en">WION Edit: Why Hafiz Saeed's conviction is an eyewash</a>

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An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has sentenced Hafiz Saeed to 11 years in jail in two separate cases. The sentence runs concurrently, so he effectively has to spend a little more than 5 years in jail.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manpreet-singh-first-indian-to-win-fih-hockey-player-of-the-year-award-280605">Manpreet Singh becomes first Indian to win FIH hockey player of the year award</a>

<img alt="Manpreet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="969858bc-90ca-404b-81f1-1229ba5dad6f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_27.jpg" />

The captain of the Indian men's team won 35.2 per cent of the combined votes and beat Belgium's Arthur van Doren and Lucas Vila of Argentina to the coveted honour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/those-who-say-i-commercialised-pain-of-kashmiri-pandits-in-shikara-are-donkeys-vidhu-vinod-chopra-280577" hreflang="en">Those who say I commercialised pain of Kashmiri pandits in 'Shikara' are donkeys: Vidhu Vinod Chopra</a>

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Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra slammed those alleging that he "commercialised the pain of Kashmiri pandits" with his film "Shikara"&nbsp;and termed them "donkeys".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-anti-islam-rant-triggers-national-debate-in-france-280600" hreflang="en">Gravitas: Anti-Islam rant triggers national debate in France</a>

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Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. China's coronavirus death toll rises to over 1,480; Japan confirms first death China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. China's coronavirus death toll rises to over 1,480; Japan confirms first death China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases. US Senate curbs Trump's ability to wage war with Iran The US Senate has passed the Iran war powers resolution. The bill seeks to prevent Donald Trump from waging war with Iran. WION Edit: Why Hafiz Saeed's conviction is an eyewash An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has sentenced Hafiz Saeed to 11 years in jail in two separate cases. The sentence runs concurrently, so he effectively has to spend a little more than 5 years in jail. Manpreet Singh becomes first Indian to win FIH hockey player of the year award The captain of the Indian men's team won 35.2 per cent of the combined votes and beat Belgium's Arthur van Doren and Lucas Vila of Argentina to the coveted honour. Those who say I commercialised pain of Kashmiri pandits in 'Shikara' are donkeys: Vidhu Vinod Chopra Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra slammed those alleging that he "commercialised the pain of Kashmiri pandits" with his film "Shikara" and termed them "donkeys". WATCH | Gravitas: Anti-Islam rant triggers national debate in France ×

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll rises, US Senate curbs Trump's war powers and more!

India hockey team skipper Manpreet Singh believes that the side has a great opportunity to complete the unfinished business in the FIH Men's World Cup 2023 after losing to the Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the FIH Men's World Cup 2018. 
 
The return of the marquee event to India has sowed another dream for the Indian team who believe this will be their best chance to finish on the podium after India last won the coveted trophy in 1975. 
 
"The loss against the Netherlands was a huge disappointment for us but now that India is set to host the World Cup again, we see this as yet another opportunity to complete the unfinished business," Singh said in an official statement. 
 
"We are really excited to learn that India has won the bid again to host the FIH Men's World Cup in 2023. We could not succeed in 2018 though we had a realistic chance of making the semifinal of the World Cup in 2018," he added. 
 
He further stressed on the strong pool of players India boasts of at the moment and their exposure at the international level in the coming years will ensure they have a strong and formidable team for the 2023 World Cup. 
 
"We have ample time to prepare for the next edition of the World Cup. Our first priority at the moment is to do well in the FIH Pro League and use the platform to prepare well for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where we seek a medal," Singh said. 
 
"A good show in Japan will only lay a solid foundation in the build-up to the World Cup in 2023. We have a strong pool of talented youngsters in the senior and junior set-up and the next two-three years they need to step-up their game and use all the opportunities that come their way," he added. 
 
The Odisha Men's World Cup in 2018 held at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium was a mega success with the world taking notice of the precession in executing the event and the grandeur in which it was hosted. While the 2018 marquee event was a spectacular show, Manpreet hopes the 2023 World will be a bigger affair. 
 
"In terms of performance, our focus will be on the major tournaments that we will be playing from now till 2022 - 2023. This also includes the Asia Cup which we would like to win again and qualify for the World Cup even though we get an automatic qualification as hosts. The World Cup in 2018 was the best that the hockey fraternity had ever seen and Odisha Government ensured the hospitality and infrastructure was top-notch so the next World Cup in India will surely have high expectations in terms of how it's hosted," Singh said. 
 
The Indian team is currently on a break and will regroup for a conditioning camp starting from November 18 in Bhubaneswar.

India hockey team skipper Manpreet Singh believes that the side has a great opportunity to complete the unfinished business in the FIH Men's World Cup 2023 after losing to the Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the FIH Men's World Cup 2018.

India hockey team skipper Manpreet Singh believes that the side has a great opportunity to complete the unfinished business in the FIH Men's World Cup 2023 after losing to the Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the FIH Men's World Cup 2018. The return of the marquee event to India has sowed another dream for the Indian team who believe this will be their best chance to finish on the podium after India last won the coveted trophy in 1975. "The loss against the Netherlands was a huge disappointment for us but now that India is set to host the World Cup again, we see this as yet another opportunity to complete the unfinished business," Singh said in an official statement. "We are really excited to learn that India has won the bid again to host the FIH Men's World Cup in 2023. We could not succeed in 2018 though we had a realistic chance of making the semifinal of the World Cup in 2018," he added. He further stressed on the strong pool of players India boasts of at the moment and their exposure at the international level in the coming years will ensure they have a strong and formidable team for the 2023 World Cup. "We have ample time to prepare for the next edition of the World Cup. Our first priority at the moment is to do well in the FIH Pro League and use the platform to prepare well for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where we seek a medal," Singh said. "A good show in Japan will only lay a solid foundation in the build-up to the World Cup in 2023. We have a strong pool of talented youngsters in the senior and junior set-up and the next two-three years they need to step-up their game and use all the opportunities that come their way," he added. The Odisha Men's World Cup in 2018 held at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium was a mega success with the world taking notice of the precession in executing the event and the grandeur in which it was hosted. While the 2018 marquee event was a spectacular show, Manpreet hopes the 2023 World will be a bigger affair. "In terms of performance, our focus will be on the major tournaments that we will be playing from now till 2022 - 2023. This also includes the Asia Cup which we would like to win again and qualify for the World Cup even though we get an automatic qualification as hosts. The World Cup in 2018 was the best that the hockey fraternity had ever seen and Odisha Government ensured the hospitality and infrastructure was top-notch so the next World Cup in India will surely have high expectations in terms of how it's hosted," Singh said. The Indian team is currently on a break and will regroup for a conditioning camp starting from November 18 in Bhubaneswar.

Great opportunity to complete unfinished business: Indian hockey skipper Manpreet Singh

A tricky opponent in Asian Games champion Japan is sure to test India but home advantage gives Manpreet Singh and his men the upper-hand in the semi-final of the FIH Series Finals hockey tournament here Friday.&nbsp;

Even though they registered some big wins in the preliminary stages against lower-ranked opponents, the Indians, under new chief coach Graham Reid, are yet to showcase their perfect game on the turf. The finalists will qualify for the FIH Olympic Qualifiers to be held in October-November this year.&nbsp;

India notched up 10-0 wins over Russia and Uzbekistan and scraped past Poland 3-1 in the pool stages.

The performance of the Manpreet Singh-led side is far from impressive. While the midfield has done well under Manpreet, it is the finishing which is a cause of concern for the Indians. 
In all the three matches, India created innumerable scoring chances, but the strike force lacked the finishing touch.

Barring Akashdeep Singh, no other striker has looked threatening in the tournament so far.

While Mandeep Singh and young Gursahibjit Singh played well in patches, Ramandeep Singh, who returned to the side after nearly a one-year injury lay-off, looked a pale shadow of his past self.

"I am happy that we created plenty of chances but we need to work on our basic skills like finishing. It is an area where we need improvement," India's chief coach Graham Reid had said.

The Indian defence too has hardly been tested in the tournament so far with Poland being the only team to cause some trouble.

Both the goalkeepers -- PR Sreejesh and Krishan Bahadur Pathak -- were mostly spectators in the pool matches but the scenario would be different Friday as the Japanese are expected to trouble the hosts.

The Asian Games champions gave India a tough fight even though they lost in the past two encounters.

While India beat Japan 3-2 in the semi-final of the Asian Champions Trophy in Doha last year, in their last meeting in the Azlan Shah Cup earlier this year, Manpreet and Co. Eked out a 2-0 win.

Japan, on the other hand, have nothing to lose as they are already assured of an Olympic berth by virtue of being the hosts as well as continental champions.

Japan are taking this tournament as a preparation for the Games to be held in Tokyo.

Siegfried Aikman and his men would be desperate to prove a point that their Asian Games gold was not a fluke.

After a below-par pool round where they finished second behind the lower-ranked USA, world no.18 Japan thrashed Poland 6-2 in the cross-overs on Wednesday.

A tricky opponent in Asian Games champion Japan is sure to test India but home advantage gives Manpreet Singh and his men the upper-hand in the semi-final of the FIH Series Finals hockey tournament here Friday.

A tricky opponent in Asian Games champion Japan is sure to test India but home advantage gives Manpreet Singh and his men the upper-hand in the semi-final of the FIH Series Finals hockey tournament here Friday. Even though they registered some big wins in the preliminary stages against lower-ranked opponents, the Indians, under new chief coach Graham Reid, are yet to showcase their perfect game on the turf. The finalists will qualify for the FIH Olympic Qualifiers to be held in October-November this year. India notched up 10-0 wins over Russia and Uzbekistan and scraped past Poland 3-1 in the pool stages. The performance of the Manpreet Singh-led side is far from impressive. While the midfield has done well under Manpreet, it is the finishing which is a cause of concern for the Indians. In all the three matches, India created innumerable scoring chances, but the strike force lacked the finishing touch. Barring Akashdeep Singh, no other striker has looked threatening in the tournament so far. While Mandeep Singh and young Gursahibjit Singh played well in patches, Ramandeep Singh, who returned to the side after nearly a one-year injury lay-off, looked a pale shadow of his past self. "I am happy that we created plenty of chances but we need to work on our basic skills like finishing. It is an area where we need improvement," India's chief coach Graham Reid had said. The Indian defence too has hardly been tested in the tournament so far with Poland being the only team to cause some trouble. Both the goalkeepers -- PR Sreejesh and Krishan Bahadur Pathak -- were mostly spectators in the pool matches but the scenario would be different Friday as the Japanese are expected to trouble the hosts. The Asian Games champions gave India a tough fight even though they lost in the past two encounters. While India beat Japan 3-2 in the semi-final of the Asian Champions Trophy in Doha last year, in their last meeting in the Azlan Shah Cup earlier this year, Manpreet and Co. Eked out a 2-0 win. Japan, on the other hand, have nothing to lose as they are already assured of an Olympic berth by virtue of being the hosts as well as continental champions. Japan are taking this tournament as a preparation for the Games to be held in Tokyo. Siegfried Aikman and his men would be desperate to prove a point that their Asian Games gold was not a fluke. After a below-par pool round where they finished second behind the lower-ranked USA, world no.18 Japan thrashed Poland 6-2 in the cross-overs on Wednesday.

India eyeing perfect game against Japan in semi-final of FIH Series Finals

Indian skipper Manpreet Singh has been honoured with the 2018 Player of the Year award by the Asian Hockey Federation while women's team striker Lalremsiami bagged the Rising Player of The Year prize.&nbsp;

Manpreet led the Indian team to an unbeaten streak at the Asian Champions Trophy in Muscat where the team was declared joint winners with Pakistan.&nbsp;

He also contributed to the team's silver medal win at the FIH Champions Trophy in Breda and continues to remain instrumental in the Indian midfield.&nbsp;

The 18-year-old Lalremsiami, on the other hand, has shown remarkable progress in the women's team with her impressive performance as a striker at the 2018 World Cup, the Asian Games where the team won a historic silver.&nbsp;

She was also a part of the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires where the under-18 team won a silver.&nbsp;

The Indian men's team was awarded the Best Performance of The Year for being the only Asian side to have reached the top eight at the World Cup in Bhubaneswar.&nbsp;

The team also came up with a historic silver medal feat at the FIH Champions Trophy in Breda, repeating its success from the 2016 edition.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Manpreet Singh has been honoured with the 2018 Player of the Year award by the Asian Hockey Federation while women's team striker Lalremsiami bagged the Rising Player of The Year prize.

Indian skipper Manpreet Singh has been honoured with the 2018 Player of the Year award by the Asian Hockey Federation while women's team striker Lalremsiami bagged the Rising Player of The Year prize. Manpreet led the Indian team to an unbeaten streak at the Asian Champions Trophy in Muscat where the team was declared joint winners with Pakistan. He also contributed to the team's silver medal win at the FIH Champions Trophy in Breda and continues to remain instrumental in the Indian midfield. The 18-year-old Lalremsiami, on the other hand, has shown remarkable progress in the women's team with her impressive performance as a striker at the 2018 World Cup, the Asian Games where the team won a historic silver. She was also a part of the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires where the under-18 team won a silver. The Indian men's team was awarded the Best Performance of The Year for being the only Asian side to have reached the top eight at the World Cup in Bhubaneswar. The team also came up with a historic silver medal feat at the FIH Champions Trophy in Breda, repeating its success from the 2016 edition.

Manpreet Singh named 2018 Player of the Year by Asian hockey body

India hockey team captain Manpreet Singh has replied to an incident that embarrassed the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">World Cup</a> organisers ahead of their crucial quarter-final clash against Netherlands.&nbsp;

Indian team players including captain Manpreet Singh were accused of entering the VIP lounge of the Kalinga Stadium during the match between Netherlands and Canada.

As per the media reports, Hockey India official 'yelled at' the Indian players for entering the restricted zone.&nbsp;

As per the protocol of the tournament, the players were not entitled to be present at the VIP lounge. But on the request of a few near and dear ones, Manpreet and a few players entered the area and was busy in signing autographs and clicking pictures with their fans.

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Goalkeeper <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@16Sreejesh</a> says his experience dictates that the team should not dwell on past setbacks, but instead look forward and continue to perform as they have at the OHMWC Bhubaneswar 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilHockey</a> <a href="https://t.co/beFtFmXSRe">pic.twitter.com/beFtFmXSRe</a>
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Supporters and fans took to Twitter and other social media forums to express anger. They criticised the treatment of players by the officials.

Soon the social media went ablaze with several people criticising the treatment of players.

When asked India captain Manpreet about the episode, he said: "It was our own mistake that we went to the restricted area without our knowledge. It is not that we were taken there forcibly by someone. Anyways, when we realised our mistake we just came out."

Manpreet further added, "These are minor episodes which will have no effect on our performance against Netherlands tomorrow."

World number five India are set to take on Netherlands in the last quarter-final on Thursday.

India has never defeated Netherlands in the history of the World Cup, but the players and coach Harendra Singh refused to dwell on the past.&nbsp;

India hockey team captain Manpreet Singh has replied to an incident that embarrassed the World Cup organisers ahead of their crucial quarter-final clash against Netherlands.

India hockey team captain Manpreet Singh has replied to an incident that embarrassed the World Cup organisers ahead of their crucial quarter-final clash against Netherlands. Indian team players including captain Manpreet Singh were accused of entering the VIP lounge of the Kalinga Stadium during the match between Netherlands and Canada. As per the media reports, Hockey India official 'yelled at' the Indian players for entering the restricted zone. As per the protocol of the tournament, the players were not entitled to be present at the VIP lounge. But on the request of a few near and dear ones, Manpreet and a few players entered the area and was busy in signing autographs and clicking pictures with their fans. Goalkeeper @16Sreejesh says his experience dictates that the team should not dwell on past setbacks, but instead look forward and continue to perform as they have at the OHMWC Bhubaneswar 2018.#IndiaKaGame #HWC2018 #DilHockey pic.twitter.com/beFtFmXSRe — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 12, 2018 × Supporters and fans took to Twitter and other social media forums to express anger. They criticised the treatment of players by the officials. Soon the social media went ablaze with several people criticising the treatment of players. When asked India captain Manpreet about the episode, he said: "It was our own mistake that we went to the restricted area without our knowledge. It is not that we were taken there forcibly by someone. Anyways, when we realised our mistake we just came out." Manpreet further added, "These are minor episodes which will have no effect on our performance against Netherlands tomorrow." World number five India are set to take on Netherlands in the last quarter-final on Thursday. India has never defeated Netherlands in the history of the World Cup, but the players and coach Harendra Singh refused to dwell on the past.

Manpreet Singh responds after Indian players 'yelled at' for entering restricted area

Expecting the Netherlands to be their quarterfinal opponents in the World Cup, India captain Manpreet Singh Tuesday said they will continue to play attacking hockey in a game where there will be no margin for error.

India's quarterfinal opponents will be decided later in the evening after the conclusion of the fourth cross-over match between world no. 4 Netherlands and Canada.

Like everyone else, Manpreet too expects the Dutch to sail into the last-eight round.

"We are expecting Holland to come through because they are a much better team. But whoever goes through our aim would be to give our best. It is a knockout, do-or-die match and there is no second chance. We can't afford to miss chances. At the same time, we need to be cautious and give less chances," the midfielder said.

"We need to play attacking hockey, our strength. When we try to play defensive, we tend to be too much defensive which provides more chances to opponents. We need to put pressure on them (from the start)," Manpreet explained.

The skipper said utilising chances would be crucial to success in the quarter-final.

"But it will be a very tough match and whichever team utilises its chances will win," he said.

"If you progress to the semi-finals you always have an option of finishing in the podium. You are just one match away from a medal. But if you lose in the quarterfinals, you don't get a second option.

"In the end it all boils down to how we play. If we get good chances and miss them and obviously the opposition team will take advantage of it," he added.

Manpreet listed out a series of dos and don'ts if they are pitted against three-time champions Netherlands.

"In the past we had good matches against Holland. In the Champions Trophy we drew with Holland. We have also defeated them in the past.

"Our aim would be to strengthen our defence. Holland has very good and experienced midfield. They also have good strikers. So, our aim would be to break their moves early. We can't give them easy chances and also need to convert our chances," he said.

Manpreet said the Hockey India League played a big part in the progress of the Indian team.

"Before HIL we didn't knew these players of Holland, Australia etc. But since HIL started we all know each other having played against them and shared the dressing room with them. The team has improved a lot after HIL," he said.

Manpreet didn't play the entire match against Canada in their last pool match because of fever but he has since recovered and will be a key figure in India's midfield on Thursday.

"I am fine now. In the last match I had fever so I couldn't play the full match. But I am feeling better now," he said.&nbsp;

Expecting the Netherlands to be their quarterfinal opponents in the World Cup, India captain Manpreet Singh Tuesday said they will continue to play attacking hockey in a game where there will be no margin for error.

Expecting the Netherlands to be their quarterfinal opponents in the World Cup, India captain Manpreet Singh Tuesday said they will continue to play attacking hockey in a game where there will be no margin for error. India's quarterfinal opponents will be decided later in the evening after the conclusion of the fourth cross-over match between world no. 4 Netherlands and Canada. Like everyone else, Manpreet too expects the Dutch to sail into the last-eight round. "We are expecting Holland to come through because they are a much better team. But whoever goes through our aim would be to give our best. It is a knockout, do-or-die match and there is no second chance. We can't afford to miss chances. At the same time, we need to be cautious and give less chances," the midfielder said. "We need to play attacking hockey, our strength. When we try to play defensive, we tend to be too much defensive which provides more chances to opponents. We need to put pressure on them (from the start)," Manpreet explained. The skipper said utilising chances would be crucial to success in the quarter-final. "But it will be a very tough match and whichever team utilises its chances will win," he said. "If you progress to the semi-finals you always have an option of finishing in the podium. You are just one match away from a medal. But if you lose in the quarterfinals, you don't get a second option. "In the end it all boils down to how we play. If we get good chances and miss them and obviously the opposition team will take advantage of it," he added. Manpreet listed out a series of dos and don'ts if they are pitted against three-time champions Netherlands. "In the past we had good matches against Holland. In the Champions Trophy we drew with Holland. We have also defeated them in the past. "Our aim would be to strengthen our defence. Holland has very good and experienced midfield. They also have good strikers. So, our aim would be to break their moves early. We can't give them easy chances and also need to convert our chances," he said. Manpreet said the Hockey India League played a big part in the progress of the Indian team. "Before HIL we didn't knew these players of Holland, Australia etc. But since HIL started we all know each other having played against them and shared the dressing room with them. The team has improved a lot after HIL," he said. Manpreet didn't play the entire match against Canada in their last pool match because of fever but he has since recovered and will be a key figure in India's midfield on Thursday. "I am fine now. In the last match I had fever so I couldn't play the full match. But I am feeling better now," he said.

Attacking hockey is India's strength and we will not deviate, says skipper Manpreet

WION Exclusive: Team India stars look ahead to 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup

Armed with a sense of togetherness, self- belief and a strong crowd backing them every moment, India will seek to end 43 years of hurt when they begin the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">Hockey World Cup</a> campaign against South Africa here Wednesday.&nbsp;

The hosts' Pool C encounter at the Kalinga Stadium will be the showpiece event's second game.&nbsp;

Eight-time Olympic champions India's only glory at the World Cup came way back in 1975 when Ajit Pal Singh and his men's created history for the past masters of the game.&nbsp;

Since then India has failed to match the standards of the Europeans -&nbsp;Netherlands, Germany -&nbsp;and Australia, who have been ruling the game for over four decades now.&nbsp;

In the last 10 editions since its maiden triumph in 1975, India's best performance was a fifth-place finish at the 1982 edition in Mumbai (then Bombay).&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ready-to-take-up-world-cup-challenge-says-indian-goalkeeper-sreejesh-to-wion-179589">Ready to take up World Cup challenge, says Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh to WION</a>

Now, the world ranked fifth Indians would be eager to recreate the magic by reaching the semifinals, and possibly a podium finish.&nbsp;

That is though easier said than done as besides tackling powerhouses like two-time defending champions Australia, Netherlands, Germany and Olympic champions Argentina, the Indians will be under pressure to live up to the expectations of millions of fans.&nbsp;

The last time India played a World Cup at home, in 2010 in New Delhi, it finished a lowly eighth and going by records, the host nation has never fared well in the tournament.&nbsp;

All the nine countries to host a World Cup till date have finished eighth or above but Harendra Singh's men would be hoping to rewrite that in front of home fans.&nbsp;

For chief coach Harendra Singh, who has come under the scanner after India's failure to defend it's Asian Games title earlier this year, the tournament is a do-or-die one and a failure is sure to cost him his job.

Harendra would be hoping to recreate the magic of two years ago when he guided the junior Indian team to the World Cup title in Lucknow.&nbsp;

To achieve his goal, Harendra has drafted in seven of 18 junior World Cup winners in the senior team alongside senior pros like skipper Manpreet Singh, PR Sreejesh, Akashdeep Singh and the ever-reliable Birendra Lakra.&nbsp;

The Indian team for the World Cup is a mixture of youth and experience with seven of the 18 featuring in the last World Cup. The squad also has youthful exuberance in 19-year-old striker Dilpreet Singh and debutant Hardik Singh.&nbsp;

But two notable absentees from the squad are dragflicker Rupinder Pal Singh, who has been dropped and striker SV Sunil, who is unfit.&nbsp;

In the 16-nation tournament India are placed alongside South Africa, Belgium and Canada in their group.&nbsp;

Barring world no. 3 Belgium, India are expected to win hands down against world no. 15 South Africa and world no. 11 Canada.&nbsp;

The match against Belgium is India's big test in the pool stages and a win against the Red Lions is a must for the hosts to avoid the cross-overs and qualify directly for the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

After South Africa, India's opponents are Belgium on December 2 and Canada on December 8.&nbsp;

It is only the second World Cup after 2002 to feature 16 teams. From four pools of four teams each, the toppers will directly qualify for the quarterfinals while the second and third placed sides will have to play four cross-over matches to earn their places in the last-eight round.

Just like all big-ticket hockey events, Australia, Netherlands and Germany will once again start favourites to lift the title.&nbsp;

The Kookaburras, in fact, will be vying to create history by becoming the first team to win the trophy for the third time in a row.&nbsp;

In the other match of the opening day, Belgium will take on Canada.

Armed with a sense of togetherness, self- belief and a strong crowd backing them every moment, India will seek to end 43 years of hurt when they begin the Hockey World Cup campaign against South Africa here Wednesday.

Armed with a sense of togetherness, self- belief and a strong crowd backing them every moment, India will seek to end 43 years of hurt when they begin the Hockey World Cup campaign against South Africa here Wednesday. The hosts' Pool C encounter at the Kalinga Stadium will be the showpiece event's second game. Eight-time Olympic champions India's only glory at the World Cup came way back in 1975 when Ajit Pal Singh and his men's created history for the past masters of the game. Since then India has failed to match the standards of the Europeans - Netherlands, Germany - and Australia, who have been ruling the game for over four decades now. In the last 10 editions since its maiden triumph in 1975, India's best performance was a fifth-place finish at the 1982 edition in Mumbai (then Bombay). Ready to take up World Cup challenge, says Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh to WION Now, the world ranked fifth Indians would be eager to recreate the magic by reaching the semifinals, and possibly a podium finish. That is though easier said than done as besides tackling powerhouses like two-time defending champions Australia, Netherlands, Germany and Olympic champions Argentina, the Indians will be under pressure to live up to the expectations of millions of fans. The last time India played a World Cup at home, in 2010 in New Delhi, it finished a lowly eighth and going by records, the host nation has never fared well in the tournament. All the nine countries to host a World Cup till date have finished eighth or above but Harendra Singh's men would be hoping to rewrite that in front of home fans. For chief coach Harendra Singh, who has come under the scanner after India's failure to defend it's Asian Games title earlier this year, the tournament is a do-or-die one and a failure is sure to cost him his job. Harendra would be hoping to recreate the magic of two years ago when he guided the junior Indian team to the World Cup title in Lucknow. To achieve his goal, Harendra has drafted in seven of 18 junior World Cup winners in the senior team alongside senior pros like skipper Manpreet Singh, PR Sreejesh, Akashdeep Singh and the ever-reliable Birendra Lakra. The Indian team for the World Cup is a mixture of youth and experience with seven of the 18 featuring in the last World Cup. The squad also has youthful exuberance in 19-year-old striker Dilpreet Singh and debutant Hardik Singh. But two notable absentees from the squad are dragflicker Rupinder Pal Singh, who has been dropped and striker SV Sunil, who is unfit. In the 16-nation tournament India are placed alongside South Africa, Belgium and Canada in their group. Barring world no. 3 Belgium, India are expected to win hands down against world no. 15 South Africa and world no. 11 Canada. The match against Belgium is India's big test in the pool stages and a win against the Red Lions is a must for the hosts to avoid the cross-overs and qualify directly for the quarterfinals. After South Africa, India's opponents are Belgium on December 2 and Canada on December 8. It is only the second World Cup after 2002 to feature 16 teams. From four pools of four teams each, the toppers will directly qualify for the quarterfinals while the second and third placed sides will have to play four cross-over matches to earn their places in the last-eight round. Just like all big-ticket hockey events, Australia, Netherlands and Germany will once again start favourites to lift the title. The Kookaburras, in fact, will be vying to create history by becoming the first team to win the trophy for the third time in a row. In the other match of the opening day, Belgium will take on Canada.

Determined India look to end 43-year-long medal draught at Hockey World Cup

Men's Hockey World Cup, considered the most important tournament in field hockey after the Olympics, is scheduled to take place in India from November 28th to December 16th.

Having previously organised the tournament in 1982 and 2010, India is ready to host the prestigious event again in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The excitement for the event is quite evident looking at the online ticket sales. The tickets sales for India matches have already been sold out.

WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to Indian hockey coach Harendra Singh, captain Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh ahead of the tournament.

"We can never take from any Indian is the emotion for hockey and hockey is always connected with to the heart," said the coach while speaking exclusively to WION.

India won the elusive gold just once in 1975, after that it has mainly been downhill for India as European teams dominated the scene. In the interview with WION's sports editor Digvijay, the coach said that it is the right place and right platform for every player to deliver their best on the field and win gold.

The wall of the Indian hockey team, goalkeeper Sreejesh said that the "the entire team is ready to take up this challenge" in the tournament where 16 countries are participating.

On being asked about the nervousness and anxiety of playing in front of the home crowd, Sreejesh said, "When you are surrounded by your own people, it gives you goosebumps."

He added that it is important to be nervous in such big tournaments as it helps players to deliver their 100 per cent.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Great banter and lots of laughter. The three main men of the Indian Hockey team like you have never seen them before.A special buildup to the 2018 <a href="https://twitter.com/FIH_Hockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIH_Hockey</a> World Cup with <a href="https://twitter.com/HarendraSingh66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarendraSingh66</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manpreetpawar07</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@16Sreejesh</a> at 730pm on Tuesday on <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/tA9CHLa7SY">pic.twitter.com/tA9CHLa7SY</a>
— Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo/status/1066908682158596096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Indian hockey has been through a bad phase when the team struggled on the pitch but in recent years, the young players have proved their mettle winning several medals, including the Champions Trophy and bronze in Asian Games at Jakarta recently.

"We learned from our mistakes and improved ourselves. We worked with good coaches and we won in major tournaments. We are really improving and we are on the right track," said Indian hockey captain Manpreet Singh to WION.

"We need to believe that we can do anything. We need to focus on ourselves and believe in ourselves," he added.

For the World Cup, India are placed in Pool C with Belgium, Canada and South Africa and will play their first match against South Africa on the inaugural day, i.e. November 28.

Men's Hockey World Cup, considered the most important tournament in field hockey after the Olympics, is scheduled to take place in India from November 28th to December 16th.

Men's Hockey World Cup, considered the most important tournament in field hockey after the Olympics, is scheduled to take place in India from November 28th to December 16th. Having previously organised the tournament in 1982 and 2010, India is ready to host the prestigious event again in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The excitement for the event is quite evident looking at the online ticket sales. The tickets sales for India matches have already been sold out. WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to Indian hockey coach Harendra Singh, captain Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh ahead of the tournament. "We can never take from any Indian is the emotion for hockey and hockey is always connected with to the heart," said the coach while speaking exclusively to WION. India won the elusive gold just once in 1975, after that it has mainly been downhill for India as European teams dominated the scene. In the interview with WION's sports editor Digvijay, the coach said that it is the right place and right platform for every player to deliver their best on the field and win gold. The wall of the Indian hockey team, goalkeeper Sreejesh said that the "the entire team is ready to take up this challenge" in the tournament where 16 countries are participating. On being asked about the nervousness and anxiety of playing in front of the home crowd, Sreejesh said, "When you are surrounded by your own people, it gives you goosebumps." He added that it is important to be nervous in such big tournaments as it helps players to deliver their 100 per cent. Great banter and lots of laughter. The three main men of the Indian Hockey team like you have never seen them before.A special buildup to the 2018 @FIH_Hockey World Cup with @HarendraSingh66 @manpreetpawar07 and @16Sreejesh at 730pm on Tuesday on @WIONews @TheHockeyIndia pic.twitter.com/tA9CHLa7SY — Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) November 26, 2018 × Indian hockey has been through a bad phase when the team struggled on the pitch but in recent years, the young players have proved their mettle winning several medals, including the Champions Trophy and bronze in Asian Games at Jakarta recently. "We learned from our mistakes and improved ourselves. We worked with good coaches and we won in major tournaments. We are really improving and we are on the right track," said Indian hockey captain Manpreet Singh to WION. "We need to believe that we can do anything. We need to focus on ourselves and believe in ourselves," he added. For the World Cup, India are placed in Pool C with Belgium, Canada and South Africa and will play their first match against South Africa on the inaugural day, i.e. November 28.

Ready to take up World Cup challenge, says Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh to WION

Men's Hockey World Cup, considered the most important tournament in field hockey after the Olympics, is scheduled to take place in India from November 28th to December 16th.

Having previously organised the tournament in 1982 and 2010, India is ready to host the prestigious event again in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The excitement for the event is quite evident looking at the online ticket sales. The tickets sales for India matches have already been sold out.

WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to Indian hockey coach Harendra Singh, captain Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh ahead of the tournament.

"We can never take from any Indian is the emotion for hockey and hockey is always connected with to the heart," said the coach while speaking exclusively to WION.

India won the elusive gold just once in 1975, after that it has mainly been downhill for India as European teams dominated the scene. In the interview with WION's sports editor Digvijay, the coach said that it is the right place and right platform for every player to deliver their best on the field and win gold.

The wall of the Indian hockey team, goalkeeper Sreejesh said that the "the entire team is ready to take up this challenge" in the tournament where 16 countries are participating.

On being asked about the nervousness and anxiety of playing in front of the home crowd, Shreejesh said, "When you are surrounded by your own people, it gives you goosebumps."

He added that it is important to be nervous in such big tournaments as it helps players to deliver their 100 per cent.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Great banter and lots of laughter. The three main men of the Indian Hockey team like you have never seen them before.A special buildup to the 2018 <a href="https://twitter.com/FIH_Hockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIH_Hockey</a> World Cup with <a href="https://twitter.com/HarendraSingh66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarendraSingh66</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manpreetpawar07</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@16Sreejesh</a> at 730pm on Tuesday on <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/tA9CHLa7SY">pic.twitter.com/tA9CHLa7SY</a>
— Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo/status/1066908682158596096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Indian hockey has been through a bad phase when the team struggled on the pitch but in recent years, the young players have proved their mettle winning several medals, including the Champions Trophy and bronze in Asian Games at Jakarta recently.

"We learned from our mistakes and improved ourselves. We worked with good coaches and we won in major tournaments. We are really improving and we are on the right track," said Indian hockey captain Manpreet Singh to WION.

"We need to believe that we can do anything. We need to focus on ourselves and believe in ourselves," he added.

For the World Cup, India are placed in Pool C with Belgium, Canada and South Africa and will play their first match against South Africa on the inaugural day, i.e. November 28.

Men's Hockey World Cup, considered the most important tournament in field hockey after the Olympics, is scheduled to take place in India from November 28th to December 16th. Having previously organised the tournament in 1982 and 2010, India is ready to host the prestigious event again in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The excitement for the event is quite evident looking at the online ticket sales. The tickets sales for India matches have already been sold out. WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to Indian hockey coach Harendra Singh, captain Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh ahead of the tournament. "We can never take from any Indian is the emotion for hockey and hockey is always connected with to the heart," said the coach while speaking exclusively to WION. India won the elusive gold just once in 1975, after that it has mainly been downhill for India as European teams dominated the scene. In the interview with WION's sports editor Digvijay, the coach said that it is the right place and right platform for every player to deliver their best on the field and win gold. The wall of the Indian hockey team, goalkeeper Sreejesh said that the "the entire team is ready to take up this challenge" in the tournament where 16 countries are participating. On being asked about the nervousness and anxiety of playing in front of the home crowd, Shreejesh said, "When you are surrounded by your own people, it gives you goosebumps." He added that it is important to be nervous in such big tournaments as it helps players to deliver their 100 per cent. Great banter and lots of laughter. The three main men of the Indian Hockey team like you have never seen them before.A special buildup to the 2018 @FIH_Hockey World Cup with @HarendraSingh66 @manpreetpawar07 and @16Sreejesh at 730pm on Tuesday on @WIONews @TheHockeyIndia pic.twitter.com/tA9CHLa7SY — Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) November 26, 2018 × Indian hockey has been through a bad phase when the team struggled on the pitch but in recent years, the young players have proved their mettle winning several medals, including the Champions Trophy and bronze in Asian Games at Jakarta recently. "We learned from our mistakes and improved ourselves. We worked with good coaches and we won in major tournaments. We are really improving and we are on the right track," said Indian hockey captain Manpreet Singh to WION. "We need to believe that we can do anything. We need to focus on ourselves and believe in ourselves," he added. For the World Cup, India are placed in Pool C with Belgium, Canada and South Africa and will play their first match against South Africa on the inaugural day, i.e. November 28.

Hockey is connected with every Indian, says Indian coach Harendra Singh to WION

Indian hockey team midfielder Manpreet Singh will take over the captaincy from PR Sreejesh in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy in Muscat.

It will Indian hockey team's first major tournament after the retirement of Sardar Singh.

Hockey India on Wednesday named the 18-member squad for the 5th men's Asian Champions Trophy 2018, scheduled to begin in Oman on 18 October.

The Indian team will go into the tournament as defending champions as they won the 2016 edition after beating Pakistan 3-2 in the final in Malaysia.

Alongside experienced goalkeeper in Sreejesh, the team also features young goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, while the defensive unit will see seasoned defender Kothajit Singh Khadangbam make a comeback.&nbsp;

Senior defender and penalty corner specialist Rupinder Pal Singh, on the other hand, has been dropped.

Harmanpreet Singh, Gurinder Singh, Varun Kumar, Surender Kumar and Jarmanpreet Singh will also be involved in India's defence while 20-year-old Hardik Singh will be making his debut for the senior team.

Indian hockey team midfielder Manpreet Singh will take over the captaincy from PR Sreejesh in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy in Muscat. It will Indian hockey team's first major tournament after the retirement of Sardar Singh.

Indian hockey team midfielder Manpreet Singh will take over the captaincy from PR Sreejesh in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy in Muscat. It will Indian hockey team's first major tournament after the retirement of Sardar Singh. Hockey India on Wednesday named the 18-member squad for the 5th men's Asian Champions Trophy 2018, scheduled to begin in Oman on 18 October. The Indian team will go into the tournament as defending champions as they won the 2016 edition after beating Pakistan 3-2 in the final in Malaysia. Alongside experienced goalkeeper in Sreejesh, the team also features young goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, while the defensive unit will see seasoned defender Kothajit Singh Khadangbam make a comeback. Senior defender and penalty corner specialist Rupinder Pal Singh, on the other hand, has been dropped. Harmanpreet Singh, Gurinder Singh, Varun Kumar, Surender Kumar and Jarmanpreet Singh will also be involved in India's defence while 20-year-old Hardik Singh will be making his debut for the senior team.

Manpreet Singh to lead India in Asian Hockey Champions Trophy

Indian men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh was recommended for this year's Arjuna Award by the national federation on Thursday.

Singh, who led the team at last month's Commonwealth Games, is among the three players recommended for the great award. &nbsp;

Dharamvir Singh, another experienced mid-fielder, and Indian women's team goalkeeper Savita have also been recommended for the same.&nbsp;

"Sanggai Ibemhal Chanu and former men's captain Bharat Chettri have been recommended for the Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement," Hockey India said in a statement.

Hockey India also recommended Coach BS Chauhan for the Dronacharya Award.

Speaking on the recommendations, Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General, Hockey India said, "They have proven their worth with significant performances that has elevated the Indian team to new heights."

"They have donned the India colours with pride and have given it their all to help the team win several accolades within the country and internationally. We at Hockey India are proud of their achievements and are happy to recommend their names for the National awards," he added.

Manpreet captained the Indian team in the absence of PR Sreejesh who was injured last year.&nbsp;

Manpreet was part of the Asia Cup success where India beat Malaysia to lift the title. 
&nbsp;

Singh led the team at last month's Commonwealth Games,

Indian men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh was recommended for this year's Arjuna Award by the national federation on Thursday. Singh, who led the team at last month's Commonwealth Games, is among the three players recommended for the great award. Dharamvir Singh, another experienced mid-fielder, and Indian women's team goalkeeper Savita have also been recommended for the same. "Sanggai Ibemhal Chanu and former men's captain Bharat Chettri have been recommended for the Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement," Hockey India said in a statement. Hockey India also recommended Coach BS Chauhan for the Dronacharya Award. Speaking on the recommendations, Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General, Hockey India said, "They have proven their worth with significant performances that has elevated the Indian team to new heights." "They have donned the India colours with pride and have given it their all to help the team win several accolades within the country and internationally. We at Hockey India are proud of their achievements and are happy to recommend their names for the National awards," he added. Manpreet captained the Indian team in the absence of PR Sreejesh who was injured last year. Manpreet was part of the Asia Cup success where India beat Malaysia to lift the title.

Indian men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh recommended for Arjuna Award

Hockey skipper Manpreet Singh feels the season-opening Four Nations Invitational Tour in New Zealand will set the pace for a hectic season and give impetus to India&#39;s goal of clinching the coveted gold at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

The Indian Men&#39;s Hockey team left for New Zealand this morning to play two separate five-day series against Belgium, New Zealand and Japan starting on January 17 at Tauranga and Hamilton.

With a young team that features four debutants, Manpreet stressed the importance of this tournament.

&quot;It is always good to start the season with some good matches against top teams. We have Belgium in our pool in the World Cup this year and as many matches, we play against them, the better for us,&quot; he said on the eve of their departure.

&quot;With teams like New Zealand and Japan in the fray, this tour will certainly help us in our preparations for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games,&quot; expressed the 25-year-old midfielder.

Looking back at the Odisha Hockey World League Final, Manpreet said doing well against teams like Australia, Belgium and Germany has instilled a new confidence in the team.

&quot;It was very important to do well against these tops teams in a big event. Earlier, somewhere at the back of our minds, we lacked the confidence that we can do well against higher ranked teams but now we don&#39;t doubt our abilities against top teams and play with the belief that we can win against them,&quot; he said.

&quot;We were the youngest team in the tournament and how we played instils new confidence in the minds of the youngsters.&quot;

With major events lined-up this year starting with the Commonwealth Games, Champions Trophy, Asian Games, Asian Champions Trophy and the Odisha Hockey Men&#39;s World Cup, the team will be put through testing times. 
Manpreet is certain of the team&#39;s realistic goals.

&quot;After the HWL Final, we recognized some of the areas that we were lacking in. We knew we can do better in defence, man-to-man marking in the circle and we did work on that in this camp,&quot; he said.

&quot;There is no doubt we are approaching this year with clear goals of winning in the CWG and defending our Gold Medal at the Asian Games. And it is important we convert our weaknesses into our strength before entering these major events.&quot;

The team will begin their campaign in New Zealand on January 17 against Japan at 10.15 IST.

"With teams like New Zealand and Japan in the fray, this tour will certainly help us in our preparations for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games," expressed the 25-year-old midfielder.

Hockey skipper Manpreet Singh feels the season-opening Four Nations Invitational Tour in New Zealand will set the pace for a hectic season and give impetus to India's goal of clinching the coveted gold at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. The Indian Men's Hockey team left for New Zealand this morning to play two separate five-day series against Belgium, New Zealand and Japan starting on January 17 at Tauranga and Hamilton. With a young team that features four debutants, Manpreet stressed the importance of this tournament. "It is always good to start the season with some good matches against top teams. We have Belgium in our pool in the World Cup this year and as many matches, we play against them, the better for us," he said on the eve of their departure. "With teams like New Zealand and Japan in the fray, this tour will certainly help us in our preparations for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games," expressed the 25-year-old midfielder. Looking back at the Odisha Hockey World League Final, Manpreet said doing well against teams like Australia, Belgium and Germany has instilled a new confidence in the team. "It was very important to do well against these tops teams in a big event. Earlier, somewhere at the back of our minds, we lacked the confidence that we can do well against higher ranked teams but now we don't doubt our abilities against top teams and play with the belief that we can win against them," he said. "We were the youngest team in the tournament and how we played instils new confidence in the minds of the youngsters." With major events lined-up this year starting with the Commonwealth Games, Champions Trophy, Asian Games, Asian Champions Trophy and the Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup, the team will be put through testing times. Manpreet is certain of the team's realistic goals. "After the HWL Final, we recognized some of the areas that we were lacking in. We knew we can do better in defence, man-to-man marking in the circle and we did work on that in this camp," he said. "There is no doubt we are approaching this year with clear goals of winning in the CWG and defending our Gold Medal at the Asian Games. And it is important we convert our weaknesses into our strength before entering these major events." The team will begin their campaign in New Zealand on January 17 against Japan at 10.15 IST.

Winning gold medal in CWG a realistic goal: Skipper Manpreet Singh

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