Pakistan’s withdrawal doesn’t matter, we beat them 15-20 times: Sardar Singh

Former India hockey captain Sardar Singh dismissed fears of Pakistan’s withdrawal from the Asian Champions Trophy, insisting their absence will have no impact on India’s campaign. Pointing to India’s recent record against their arch-rivals, Sardar said the hosts must focus on beating the teams that have arrived rather than worrying about who is missing.

Pakistan was initially expected to participate in the tournament but they subsequently withdrew after trying to have their matches moved to a neutral venue. Sardar said the decision was a matter between the Pakistan Hockey Federation and the Asian Hockey Federation and that India had no reason to be distracted by the development.

ABSENCE OF PAKISTAN

“No, it’s really not a difference for us. You may have noticed that initially the Pakistan team was expected to participate, but subsequently they pulled out for whatever reasons. Honestly, this does not bother us much. We are well aware that we have beaten Pakistan in the last 15-20 consecutive matches,” Sardar said.

“This decision was theirs and it is a matter between the Pakistan Federation and the Asian Hockey Federation. Now we should focus on how to perform well against the other five teams that have arrived.”

Pakistan’s withdrawal means India will not face one of its most famous rivals during the competition. However, Sardar made it clear that the team’s ambitions remain unchanged. India are aiming for the title and the former captain believes their standing in Asian hockey should give them the confidence to approach the tournament on their own terms.

“There is no doubt that we are the number one team in Asia; our goal is simply to play quality hockey,” he said.

Rather than dwelling on Pakistan’s absence, Sardar wants India to focus on the quality of their performances against the remaining teams. The challenge for the hosts is to maintain their standards throughout the competition and take home advantage.

HOME ADVANTAGE

The tournament is also important for Indian players from Punjab, a region with a rich hockey tradition. Several members of the team started their sporting journey in and around Jalandhar and Sardar believes that playing in front of the home crowd could give them extra motivation to perform.

“Many players, including a few from Punjab, some of whom started their hockey journey in Jalandhar, are now playing in front of their home crowd. I hope they will play excellent hockey and win the Asian trophy for the country,” he said.

For Sardar, the priority is clear. India’s players have an opportunity to showcase themselves in front of their fans and add another title to the country’s hockey honours.

Pakistan’s absence may take away one of the most anticipated rivalries of the tournament, but Sardar doesn’t believe that should change India’s approach. With five other teams in the competition, he wants the hosts to focus on their own game and give the home crowd reason to celebrate.

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