Krishan Pathak, following the retirement of PR Sreejesh, has been appointed as the main goalkeeper for the Indian hockey team in the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy. The tournament, scheduled from September 8 to 17, will witness defending champions India competing against Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Japan, and host China in Hulunbuir.
After securing a second successive Olympic bronze medal in Paris earlier this month, PR Sreejesh announced his retirement. His departure paved the way for Krishan Pathak to take over the crucial goalkeeping role.
Krishan Pathak’s Journey with Indian Hockey Team
Krishan Pathak, who previously served as the standby goalkeeper during the Paris Olympics and other tournaments, will now be the primary custodian. Suraj Karkera will serve as the reserve goalkeeper.
Experienced midfielder Vivek Sagar Prasad has been appointed vice-captain, replacing Hardik Singh, who is currently rested along with other players like Mandeep Singh, Lalit Upadhyay, Shamsher Singh, and Gurjant Singh.
The tournament also presents an opportunity for promising drag-flicker Jugraj Singh. Having travelled to the Paris Olympics as a standby player, Jugraj aims to prove his credentials alongside the brilliant Harmanpreet Singh. His powerful drag flicks could be a game-changer for the team.
Defensive Lineup: The defence will be led by players like Jarmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Harmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, and Sumit.
Midfield and Forward: Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Manpreet Singh, and Mohammed Raheel will form the midfield, while a young forward line featuring Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Hundal, junior India captain Uttam Singh, and debutant Gurjot Singh will lead the attack.
Get familiar with the Indian Hockey team featuring Krishan Pathak! 🏑@TheHockeyIndia | @KrishanBPathak pic.twitter.com/dF7MVCheUK
— Olympic Khel (@OlympicKhel) April 25, 2024
Chief coach Craig Fulton emphasized the importance of this campaign in maintaining ranking points. With a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers, India aims to shine in the Asian Champions Trophy and kick off the new Olympic cycle on a strong note.
As the Indian team prepares for this crucial tournament, all eyes will be on Krishan Pathak as he steps into the shoes of a hockey legend and guards the goal for his nation.
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