The nation’s hockey enthusiasts erupted into cheers as the triumphant echoes of the Asian Champions Trophy victory resounded through Chennai yesterday. Three formidable stars from the national hockey team, who played an instrumental role in securing this resounding triumph, proudly call Amritsar their hometown. The triumvirate of Team Captain Harmanpreet Singh, Shamsher Singh, and Gurjant Singh, all native to Amritsar, showcased their exceptional skills on the international stage once again, reminiscent of their stellar performance in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
The magnetic prowess of Harmanpreet Singh, renowned for his exceptional drag flicking and defensive prowess, emanates from the quaint surroundings of Timmowal village in Jandiala Guru area. Sarbjit Singh, Harmanpreet’s father, expressed his elation at the collective brilliance of the team, lauding their synchronization akin to a finely-tuned mechanism. Rising from a two-goal deficit at the outset, the team’s resurgence enthralled onlookers. Jugraj, Gurjant, skipper Harmanpreet, and Akashdeep etched their names in the annals of victory with their mesmerizing goals.
Hailing from Khaliara village, Gurjant’s father, Baldev Singh, encapsulated the village’s fervor as they jubilantly witnessed the hockey finale. Thunderous applause reverberated as Gurjant masterfully secured a goal in the 45th minute, a feat that sparked collective celebration. Gurjant’s passion for the sport was ignited by his maternal uncle, Hardev Singh Chahal, a national-level player.
The spirited farmers’ lineage resonates in Shamsher’s family as his father, Hardev Singh, embraces agriculture. The Tokyo Olympics captivated Hardev Singh’s attention, drawing him into the enthralling tapestry of each hockey match. He astutely noted the remarkable contributions from midfielders, forwards, and defenders that stitched the fabric of victory together.
Punjab’s Cabinet Minister, Harbhajan Singh ETO, extended his heartiest congratulations to the entire Indian contingent, particularly commending the triumphant trio whose roots are embedded in Amritsar. The pride of having a significant representation from Punjab within the team was palpable. Expressing his aspirations, Harbhajan Singh ETO envisioned a perpetuation of the victorious momentum, eventually culminating in a coveted gold at the forthcoming Olympic Games. He extended his felicitations to the players’ families, connecting with them over the phone to share in their jubilation.
The triumphant saga of these three Amritsari hockey stalwarts in the Asian Champions Trophy not only showcases their skill but also symbolizes the unifying power of sports that transcends regional boundaries. As the sun sets on this victory, the hope for a radiant golden dawn at the Olympics burns brighter than ever.
