New Delhi: After the high of FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup, where the Indian team clinched a bronze medal, backed by a valiant comeback to beat Argentina 4-2, players are vying to further impress with their outing in the upcoming Hero Hockey India League (HIL).
While the Women's HIL is scheduled to commence in Ranchi on 28th December, the Men's HIL will begin in Chennai on 3rd January.
The junior stars are very well aware of the significance of the league, which will be closely watched by the chief coach Craig Fulton, who has been closely monitoring the progress of some of these players.
Dilraj Singh, who scored a total of five goals in the tournament, said, "Ending the Junior World Cup campaign with a medal around our neck surely feels fantastic, but to do well in the Hockey India League is the next big step in making the cut for the senior team. We are aware we will be watched closely, and doing well in the HIL, where we will be on the same platform as some of the senior players from across nations, will be important."
Dilraj will be playing for SG Pipers this season. His compatriot, Anmol Ekka, who was awarded the player of the match for his incredible goals in the bronze medal match, also emphasised putting up an improved show in January.
Arshdeep Singh, who was instrumental in the Indian forwardline with some fine assists and winning penalty corners, apart from scoring a hat-trick of goals in the round robin stage, will be turning up for Hyderabad Toofans. "I am actually very excited and eagerly awaiting the Hockey India League season. We have seen how this league has helped players in the past to make the senior squad," he said.
