Team Eager to defend gold at Asian Games: Rupinder Pal Singh
New Delhi: Propelled by a strong comeback in the three-match series against New Zealand last week, drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh says the Indian hockey team are eager to carry forward the momentum at the upcoming Asian Games and win the gold medal.
“Personally for me, playing against a quality team like New Zealand who won the silver medal at the Commonwealth Games was very important. Since I had missed out all the action during the Champions Trophy, I had to find my rhythm ahead of the Asian Games in Jakarta,” Rupinder said. “We are eager to defend the gold medal at the Asian Games.”
The CWG in April was Rupinder’s last appearance at a major international event.
A hamstring injury during the event meant that he had to be rested for the CT where the team finished runners-up. Rupinder remained in the national camp to work on his fitness.
“It is frustrating for any player to be watching the team play on TV but it was critical for me to undergo rehab in order to be match-fit and available for the Asiad,” he said.