India will enter the FIH Hockey World Cup with an aim to end the 51-year-drought for the title. The team’s first and only title came in 1975 when the Ajit Pal-led side defeated Pakistan to win the title in Malaysia. India are clubbed in Pool D along with Wales, England and Pakistan, and the top two teams from the group will qualify for the next round. The road ahead isn’t easy, but Manpreet Singh believes that the team has the talent to go all the way.

Manpreet added that the World Cup also could be his last World Cup, and he is entering the marquee event with a mindset to end the long hiatus.

Speaking to JioStar, the India midfielder said, “This World Cup means a lot to me because it’s my fourth edition. We have won back-to-back Olympic medals, but a World Cup medal is still missing. Every player dreams of having both. For me, this could be my last World Cup, so I am approaching it with that mindset. I am determined to achieve what we haven’t yet. The team has the experience and the talent to go all the way. We have prepared well, and the belief is high. Indian sports are rising across the board, and hockey is no different. We have won Olympic medals, and now it’s time to go all the way in the World Cup.”

“I have full faith in this team. Everyone is excited and ready for the World Cup. We have learned from past editions that you cannot take any team lightly in a tournament like this. Our squad has a good balance of youth and experience.

“Senior players like our captain Harmanpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, and myself have shared our learnings with the younger players about what worked, what didn’t, and how to approach each match with full focus. Every match in this tournament is important. We need to go in with the right mindset, respect every opponent, and play to win,” he added.

Speaking on the marquee clash against Pakistan, Manpreet also added that the team needs to look beyond the opponent’s name and stick to their game plan, adding that if they play as a unit, India can beat any team in the competition.

“Regardless of who we play, whether it’s Pakistan or any other team, we stick to our game plan. We don’t get caught up in the opposition’s name or reputation. Hockey is a team sport, and if one player tries to do everything alone, it can hurt the team. We must trust each other and play as a unit. By working together and executing our plans, we can beat any side. It all comes down to how we perform on the day. We need to stay emotionally balanced, stick to our roles, and play with discipline. That is what will give us the best chance to win.”

Manpreet also predicted India to reach the final of the World Cup. “I am confident that we will reach the final of the World Cup. The team is playing with great belief and giving 100 per cent in every single training session. The energy in the camp is high, and every member of the squad is determined to achieve something special. I fully believe we will make it to the final.”