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Perth: Indian men’s hockey team skipper Sardar Singh registered yet another milestone when he completed his 200th international cap in the fourth and final Test against world champions Australia, which the visitors won 3-1 to clinch a historic series win here.
Sardar, who made his debut in 2006 against Pakistan, led the team brilliantly as India clinched the series 3-1 against the mighty Kookaburras in their home turf.
Congratulating Sardar on his achievement, Hockey India’s secretary general Md Mushtaque Ahmad said, “Hockey India is extremely delighted for Sardar Singh’s achievement of 200 international matches. Since his debut, he has been an integral part of Indian team and always gives his best performance in matches at all levels.
“His journey from a keen learner to an inspirational skipper has seen many successes where he has played a vital role for the team. As a senior player and captain, he is a hero and a mentor to whom young players would like to look up to and follow the footsteps. Hockey India takes utmost pride in congratulating Sardar on his accomplishment of 200 international caps. We wish him all the best for the upcoming tournaments,” he said.
Playing as midfielder, Sardar is known as one of the best hockey players in the world.
Hailing from Haryana, Sardar played his first international match with the junior national team during India’s 2003-04 tour of Poland. He has participated in all international tournaments since 2006 and is also the youngest player to captain India when he led the side at the 2008 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
Sardar was awarded player of the tournament in the 2012 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, 2012 Summer Olympics Qualifiers and 2010 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
In 2010, Sardar was included in the 18-men FIH All-Star Team and won the Asian Men Player of the Year 2012.
Following his impressive showing at the 2013 Asia Cup, he was signed by the Dutch club, HC Bloemendaal to play in the Euro Hockey League.
In the Hero Hockey India League, Sardar Singh captains Delhi Waveriders and led his team to victory in 2013 edition of the tournament.
PTI
