Interview with Gurbaj Singh: "Building winning momentum in Belgium key for India"

Gurbaj Singh

Gurbaj Singh is a vital cog in the Indian men’s hockey team. The ace player can essay all roles to near-perfection – he can rush in to help the defence, control the midfield and even step forward when needed. The experienced midfielder, who is employed with Punjab Police, will be look to bring all his experience to the fore in the Hockey World League (HWL) semi-finals.

Gurbaj spoke to us on the team’s preparations among others in an exclusive interview:

Q. Are you looking forward to the HWL Semi-finals?

The team has worked hard during the preparatory camp and we are upbeat about pulling off a solid performance in Belgium. It will not be easy considering the fact that many top teams are there, but we will give our best shot.

Q. Paul van Ass is still new to the team – it is only his third assignment as head coach. How has the team coped with his coaching methods?

Paul van Ass is focusing on our basics. He is always giving inputs on how to maintain possession, on how to up the pace of play or slow down the pace according to different situations. We are feeling comfortable with his coaching ways. Any new coach will have his plans looking at a long-term scenario of three-four years and I’m sure what he wants to achieve with this team.

Q. How important is for the Indian team to improve our bench strength?

It is imperative for any team to have a robust bench strength. Our head coach Paul Van Ass has been trying out various players in different positions so that he knows which player is comfortable in which position, and also having two-three guys ready for one position helps in case of an injury.

Q. Do you think a good performance by India in the HWL will really set the momentum for the 2016 Rio Olympics?

It will be fantastic for our Olympic preparations if we can do well in the World League. Having a winning momentum will be good for the team and it can do a world of good to the team’s confidence.

Q. India defeated world champions Australia besides other top sides like Germany, Netherlands and Belgium last year – something that did not happen for many years. Is this enough indication that Indian hockey is making rapid progress since our wooden spoon finish at the 2012 London Olympics?

Oh yes! We have been together as a team for a long while now and there is a great deal of understanding among the boys. The team have plenty of experience with many of us having played over hundred internationals. This team can do well in the Rio Olympics.

Q. India suffered injuries to Raghunath, Sunil and Kothajit. It must be disappointing for the team?

All these guys are quite experienced and we miss them, but then we have youngsters who can fill the void.

Q. Do you think the world’s top teams are taking India seriously – we reached the semifinals of the 2014 Champions Trophy and for a 9th ranked side it must be a climb up the ladder?

I think the world’s top teams are more keen to play against India than ever before. Playing against good teams only improves our game and we can only getter better playing such teams.