Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: 5 promising young players to watch out for

#1 Hardik Singh - India

Hardik Singh will be eager to make an impact in India's campaign at the World Cup

Hailing from a family which has produced multiple generations of hockey stalwarts, Hardik Singh is starting to carve a niche for himself. It's a testament to the 20-year old's immense potential that the Indian team management chose to include him in the World Cup squad ahead of much more experienced defenders.

Capable of playing the role of defensive mid-fielder, Hardik Singh is also adept at launching quick counter-attacks by cutting through the middle. After watching several hockey stars from close quarters during his days as ball boy in the 2013 Hockey India League, he honed his skills at the Mohali Hockey Academy.

Hardik was named vice-captain during India's campaign at the 2016 Boys U-18 Asia Cup. However, lack of national opportunities in 2017 made him consider a move to Netherlands for club hockey. Indian hockey legend Jugraj Singh, also Hardik's uncle, implored him to stay back in the country and focus on domestic tournaments.

Hardik's stocks soared after he found a place in India's squad at the 2018 Asian Champions Trophy. With coach Harendra Singh favouring youth over experience, it did not come across as any surprise when he found a place in the 18-member contingent for the World Cup.