Bhubaneswar, Mar 6 (UNI) Angad Bir Singh became an overnight sensation after scoring a stunning ‘double jalebi’ goal during a shootout for the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers against Tamil Nadu Dragons in the recently concluded Hero Hockey India League.
His extraordinary feat came against one of the world’s best goalkeepers, David Harte, earning him widespread acclaim and a call-up to the Indian Senior Men’s Team for the FIH Pro League 2024/25.
Making his Senior Team debut against Ireland in Bhubaneswar, the 22-year-old forward reflected on the momentous occasion. "I was absolutely thrilled before the match. It felt like the culmination of everything I had worked for," Angad said. He recalled the pre-match announcement by Chief Coach Craig Fulton, which heightened his anticipation. "When the coach announced my debut in front of the team, it felt like something special was about to happen. That moment filled me with excitement."
The young forward, who previously secured Gold at the 2022 Sultan of Johor Cup, Bronze at the 2023 edition, and another Gold at the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2023, admitted to initial nerves but quickly settled into his rhythm. "For the first minute or so, I was a bit cautious, trying not to make any mistakes. But then I told myself, ‘This is just another game. Play your game, be confident.’ And after that, I was fully in the flow."
Angad expressed gratitude for the support from senior players, including Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh, and Sanjay. "They were incredible, always encouraging me to play without pressure. Manpreet and Hardik were by my side throughout the match, and Sanjay, who plays right half, helped me stay grounded," he said.
Praising Fulton’s approach, he highlighted how the coach’s calm and supportive demeanour eased his transition. "Before the match, Fulton told me, ‘Just play your game and enjoy this moment. Don’t worry about mistakes, I’ve got your back.’ That really stuck with me."
On the difference between junior and senior hockey, Angad remarked, "There’s a huge difference. At the junior level, it’s more about the basics. But in senior hockey, everything is tactical. The game is faster and much more strategic, so I’m constantly learning and adapting."
Looking ahead, he is determined to improve with every game and has set his sights on the biggest prize in world hockey. "The ultimate dream is to win Gold at the Olympics. Watching our team win Bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris was incredible, but now I want to be part of the squad that goes all the way and brings home the Gold medal."
Angad’s debut was also a proud moment for his family. "It was a dream come true for my father to see me play in the Indian team. My entire family and relatives gathered to watch my debut match together, and their pride and joy made the moment even more special for me."
As Angad Bir Singh embarks on his journey with the Senior Team, his meteoric rise signals a promising future for Indian hockey.
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