Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers emerged as the champions of the Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25, capping off a season filled with highs and lows. One of the key figures in their triumphant campaign was Abhishek Nain, the second-most expensive player of the season. (More Hockey News)
The Olympic medallist shared insights into the team바카라s journey, his personal experiences and future aspirations for Indian hockey during a conversation with Outlook India.
A Team Like Family
From the very beginning, Bengal Tigers showcased exceptional teamwork and camaraderie. Abhishek emphasized that the team environment was more like a family, where players from different backgrounds - foreign internationals, young Indian talents, current national team members, and even retired stars - bonded seamlessly.
바카라The communication between the players was nice. Everyone was very supportive, not just on the field but off the field as well,바카라 Abhishek said.
The Tigers experienced both winning and losing streaks but stayed united throughout the season. Their ability to maintain composure and keep an open communication channel ultimately played a crucial role in their success.
Jugraj And Rupinder Pal: The Driving Forces
Two key players in the Bengal Tigers바카라 success were Jugraj Singh and Rupinder Pal Singh, both of whom played a vital role in penalty corner conversions. Abhishek highlighted their dedication and strategic approach to the game.
Bengal Tigers defeated Hyderabad Toofans 4-3 in the HIL 2024-25 final where Jugraj Singh scored a hat-trick of goals to help his team win the title.
바카라We used to have meetings before the game and give Jugraj 3-4 trials because his drives have immense force. He has the ability to score, so he was given the chance. Then we used to try variations,바카라 Nain explained.
He also praised Rupinder Pal Singh바카라s vast experience, which helped in planning and executing strategies against opponents. 바카라Him and Jugraj used to discuss plans before the match on whom to target. The coach also played a role in deciding who would take the penalty corners. Our strategies before the match worked, and Jugraj performed well under pressure.바카라
Handling The Price Tag Pressure
Being the second-most expensive player in the HIL 2024-25, Abhishek was bought for INR 72 lakh by the Bengal franchise. However, he remained unfazed by the price tag and stayed focused on his game.
바카라When I was bought at such a big price, it felt good, but there was no pressure on me. I needed to do my job, and I have done well so far. I am happy with my performance,바카라 he stated.
Dreaming Big For Indian Hockey
As an Olympic medallist and a key member of India바카라s gold-winning squads at the 2022 Asian Games and 2024 Asian Champions Trophy, Abhishek remains committed to bringing back the golden era of Indian hockey.
바카라Future plans for the national setup are simple. We want to win gold medals on big stages and bring back the glory of Indian hockey. And it will happen,바카라 he asserted.
He believes that the Hockey India League plays a significant role in grooming young talents by giving them opportunities to play alongside established stars, ultimately strengthening Indian hockey.
Personal Performance And Team Success
Despite contributing to the team바카라s success, Abhishek admitted that he expected more from himself in terms of goal-scoring.
바카라I am happy with the team바카라s performance, but personally, I wanted to score more goals. Though I have assisted in some goals and created penalty corners, the number of goals is not as high as I wanted,바카라 he reflected.
With Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers lifting the HIL trophy, Abhishek and his teammates have left an indelible mark on the league.
