Exclusive! International Hockey Returns to Delhi after 10 Years: Ajitpal Singh Advocates for Expanding the Sport Beyond Select Regions

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New Delhi, Oct 23: International hockey made a grand comeback to New Delhi after a decade-long hiatus, as India take on Germany in a thrilling two-match bilateral series. The excitement is palpable at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, which will host the high-octane clashes on October 23 and 24.

The stadium last witnessed international action during the 2014 Hockey World League Final, making this return special for both players and fans. Also Read: Jarmanpreet Singh Terms Hockey's Exclusion from CWG Games a 'Big Shock'

This time, India, ranked 5th in the world, will lock horns with Germany, the reigning world champions and Olympic silver medallists, in what promises to be an intense and competitive series.

Expanding Hockey's Reach Across India

While recent international matches have been concentrated in cities like Bhubaneswar, Rourkela, Ranchi, and Chennai - the host of the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy - experts believe that spreading the game to more regions will promote hockey at the grassroots level. Ajitpal Singh, the legendary captain of India's 1975 World Cup-winning team, stressed the importance of hosting matches across the country.

"International matches offer fans the chance to witness their favourite players up close," Singh told MyKhel. "Hockey is loved in different parts of India, and hosting matches in diverse locations will keep that love alive. Building a wider fan base is essential for the game's development. It's crucial that we don't limit international matches to just one or two regions-spreading them out helps maintain momentum and build excitement."

Singh also highlighted the off-field benefits of hosting international events, noting that these matches elevate local facilities and help officials gain experience in organizing top-tier competitions.

India vs Germany: A Fierce Rivalry Renewed

The India-Germany rivalry has been closely contested in recent years. Since 2013, the two teams have faced off 19 times, with India winning 8 matches and Germany, nicknamed Träger der Adler (Bearers of the Eagle), securing 7 victories. Both teams bring their A-game to every encounter, and this series is no exception.

Germany, still riding high from their triumph at the 2023 World Cup and a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, are determined to assert their dominance. On the other hand, India - who narrowly lost 3-2 to Germany in the Paris semi-finals - are eager to showcase their growth on home turf.

Yet, Indian defender Jarmanpreet Singh dismissed any notion of seeking revenge. "We aim to play our best hockey and win the series," he said. "You can only avenge an Olympic loss on the same stage, not in a bilateral series."

Talking about the return of international hockey to the national capital, the Amritsar-born hockey star said, "It is good news for the fans hockey fans in Delhi and adjoining regions and we expect fans will pour out in big numbers to watch the game and support us. This will definitely help promote the sport in the region and encourage youth to pick up hockey as a career option."

A Homecoming for Coach Craig Fulton

The series holds special meaning for India's head coach Craig Fulton. The South African tactician, who made his international debut at the 1995 Indira Gandhi Gold Cup held at the same venue, finds himself back at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium - now as the coach of Team India.

Reflecting on his team's preparation, Fulton remarked, "Germany poses several tactical threats. They excel in man-to-man marking and adapt quickly. We'll need to mix up our strategies to keep them off-balance. It's always a challenge, but we enjoy playing against Germany."

Fulton's leadership has been instrumental in India's recent success, including their Asian Champions Trophy win. His experience promises to be invaluable as India seeks to capitalize on home advantage.

Harmanpreet Singh Recalls Junior Camp Days in Delhi

For captain Harmanpreet Singh, the series in Delhi is deeply personal. "I'm really excited to play in Delhi again," he shared. "This stadium holds a lot of fond memories for me. Back in 2013, I was part of the junior camp here, and I spent countless hours training on this very field. It feels like a homecoming."

Harmanpreet is focused on maintaining intensity and learning from each match, emphasising that preparation and strategy are key against a side like Germany. "Every team follows two or three structures, and it's important that we stick to our plan while learning from every match - win or lose," he added.

A Test of Skill and Speed

With India's recent success and home advantage, they will aim to harness their speed and flair to outplay a disciplined and tactically sound German team. For fans in Delhi-NCR, these matches provide a rare opportunity to witness top-tier international hockey up close after years of waiting.

The return of international hockey to the capital marks a new chapter for the sport, and the India vs Germany series promises to deliver the excitement that fans have been longing for. Beyond the matches, the hope is that events like these will rekindle interest in hockey across the nation-ensuring it thrives beyond traditional strongholds and reaches new frontiers.