New Delhi: India ended a disappointing campaign in the Men’s Hockey World Cup with an eighth-place finish after losing to Belgium.
However, there was something to celebrate despite the shootout loss in Friday’s classification play-off match.
Odisha’s pride Amit Rohidas featured in his 250th international appearance for India.
Rohidas, the 33-year-old defender from ‘hockey nursery’ Sundargarh is a two-time Olympic medallist, having been a part of the Tokyo and Paris Olympics.
Having made his senior India debut at the 2013 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh (Malaysia), Rohidas plays the crucial role of first rusher in the team’s penalty-corner defence.
“It feels incredible to reach 250 caps for my country. Every time I step on the field in the India jersey, I carry the pride of my team, my family and everyone back home who has supported me. I want to thank Hockey India, my coaches and my teammates for their constant belief, and I hope to keep contributing to the team for as long as I can,” Rohidas said.
Hockey India (HI) applauded the efforts of Rohidas as well as Rajinder Singh, who completed 50 games for the National team.
“I congratulate Amit Rohidas on completing 250 international caps and Rajinder Singh on completing 50 international caps for India. Amit has been the backbone of our defence for over a decade, and it is heartening to see a young player like Rajinder already making his mark on the international stage. Both milestones reflect the strength and depth we now have in this team,” said HI president Dilip Tirkey, who played 412 matches for India.
HI secretary general Bhola Nath Singh also congratulated Rohidas and Singh for achieving personal milestones, and wished them continued success.