EXCLUSIVE - Harmanpreet Singh on aiming to end 50-year Hockey World Cup jinx & Pro League lessons

The FIH Hockey World Cup is the biggest hockey event of the year and India's hopes to end a 51 year jinx rest on the team and their captain.

In an exclusive interview, Harmanpreet Singh discusses the team's preparation, challenges faced, and the improvements made on their journey towards the World Cup. He highlights the importance of recent matches against top teams such as Belgium, the Netherlands, England, and Pakistan in building confidence and honing team unity.

Harmanpreet elaborates on the differences between the World Cup and the Olympics, emphasizing the unique pressures and formats of these tournaments. He reflects on past quarterfinal losses and the mental strength required to overcome critical moments, stressing how the team has grown stronger in mindset and attitude.

He also addresses the significance of penalty corner defense and shootouts, areas where the team has identified weaknesses and is actively working to improve. The captain praises the team's overall confidence and learning experiences from tight matches, which have prepared them for the high stakes of the World Cup.

Discussion also covers the influence of experienced players and promising youngsters, with Harmanpreet acknowledging the responsibility and legacy carried by the Indian hockey squad. He urges a positive mindset, unity, and belief in the team's potential to finally claim the coveted trophy and celebrate a new golden generation of Indian hockey.