Rising hockey talent Arshdeep Singh is making waves in Indian hockey, earning his senior debut at the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 in Bhubaneswar. The 20-year-old forward has also been nominated for the Hockey India Jugraj Singh Award for Upcoming Player of the Year (Men – Under 21).
Arshdeep, who has been nominated alongside Amir Ali, Shardanand Tiwari, and Araijeet Singh Hundal, expressed his surprise and gratitude upon receiving the nomination. “I did not expect to be nominated for such a prestigious award. I am honoured and grateful to Hockey India. Even if I do not win the award, this has highly motivated me to do better and work harder on my game,” he said in a Hockey India press release.
His senior India debut was a significant milestone, and he made the most of the experience, playing two matches and gaining valuable insights. “My debut experience was very good. I learned a lot, especially how structured the top teams in the world are. Playing with the senior players has boosted my confidence and motivated me to improve my game,” Arshdeep shared.
Arshdeep first made a mark at the 2024 Men’s Junior Asia Cup, where he scored six goals, including a crucial contribution in India’s final victory over Pakistan. However, his true breakout moment came in the Hockey India League (HIL) earlier this year, where he was named Upcoming Player of the Tournament. Playing for Hyderabad Toofans, he scored three goals and played a key role in guiding his team to the final.
“The atmosphere in my team, Hyderabad Toofans, was very positive, which is why I could play so freely and thrive in the tournament,” he recalled. His selection for the national team came while he was still with the HIL squad, a moment he immediately shared with his family. “I called my mom first because it was truly a proud moment for me,” he said.
Making his debut against Spain was a moment of excitement rather than nerves, thanks to the guidance of senior players. “Sukhjeet advised me to play freely and not worry about mistakes. He told me the way I react after making mistakes is more important,” Arshdeep revealed.
Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh also encouraged him. “Harmanpreet told me he will try his best to win the match to make it memorable for me and told me to try my hardest to score a debut goal.”
Having gained valuable senior team exposure, Arshdeep is now back with the junior squad in Bengaluru, preparing for the Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup in December. With his rapid rise, sharp skills, and hunger for success, Arshdeep Singh is emerging as one of India’s most promising hockey talents.
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