Former India skipper and goalkeeper, Bharat Chettri, is focusing on the upcoming Hockey India League to make a big impact. The HIL, according to Chettri, will be the prefect platform to showcase his mettle, and he doesn't want to miss that chance. "I want to prove my critics wrong…I am still hungry to represent my country," said Chettri who went unsold during the players' auction last December.
The Bangalore-based 'keeper, who will be donning the Punjab Warriors colours, said his aim will be to take each game at a time. "Since each contest will be as challenging as the final, I want to give my best in each contest," he said of his strategy, hoping it would also fit into the team management's scheme of things.
Fighting fit
Chettri, who had a training session on Wednesday along with teammates, told HT from Jalandhar that, "Good fitness will help me perform my duties under the bar in a more professional manner."
Olympian and teammate Shivendra Singh too is hoping for an excellent show. "My primary goal is to excel in the league. It will help me ensure a place in the national side," he said on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, despite the bone-chilling weather, it was business as usual for the Delhi Wave Riders players in the Capital, as they had two gruelling sessions. "It's pretty cold here. Something like Europe," remarked Oskar Deeke, a German player.
{{/usCountry}}Meanwhile, despite the bone-chilling weather, it was business as usual for the Delhi Wave Riders players in the Capital, as they had two gruelling sessions. "It's pretty cold here. Something like Europe," remarked Oskar Deeke, a German player.
{{/usCountry}}"The weather may be cold, but the Indian food is quite hot and very tempting. I am enjoying it," the German said in lighter vein.
Though Delhi and Punjab are already in serious training mode, the Ranchi Rhinos players are yet to step on the turf. According to Sunil Goenka, the team spokesperson, the players haven't arrived yet. "Hopefully, we should start practice on Thursday," he said.