In a rare and heartwarming moment in international hockey, Australian players paid a grand tribute to Indian veteran Manpreet Singh as he stepped onto the field for his 400th international appearance. The touching gesture, which included a guard of honour and a specially signed jersey, took place ahead of the FIH Pro League clash between India and Australia in London on Saturday.
Manpreet, who has been a pillar of Indian hockey for over a decade and a half, became only the fourth Indian men’s player to reach the remarkable milestone, joining the elite company of Sardar Singh, Dhanraj Pillay, and P.R. Sreejesh. The Australian team, known for their competitive spirit, set that aside briefly to acknowledge the sheer significance of Manpreet’s achievement.
As the Indian team lined up before the match, Australian players formed a guard of honour through which Manpreet walked, visibly moved by the respectful gesture. He was also presented with a team jersey autographed by the entire Australian squad — a token of appreciation for his enduring commitment to the sport.
“It was a truly emotional moment for me,” said Manpreet after the match. “To receive such a tribute from one of the world’s best teams shows the spirit of the hockey community. I am grateful to my teammates, coaches, fans, and opponents who have all played a role in my journey.”
Manpreet made his international debut in 2011 as a teenager and went on to represent India at three Olympic Games. He captained India to a historic bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, ending a 41-year Olympic medal drought. Known for his energy, work rate, and ability to control the midfield, Manpreet has been a key figure in India’s hockey resurgence over the last decade.
Former India captain and Manpreet’s long-time teammate Sardar Singh hailed the achievement: “400 matches is a monumental feat in today’s game. Manpreet’s consistency and leadership have been inspirational.”
While India lost the tightly contested match to Australia 2–3, the occasion was far greater than the result. The hockey world came together to honour a player whose influence has transcended statistics and scoresheets.
Manpreet’s milestone is not just a personal victory but a reflection of India’s rise back to prominence in world hockey. With the Paris 2024 Olympics looming, his experience will continue to be invaluable to the Indian squad.
In a sport built on speed, tactics, and passion, gestures like Australia’s are a reminder that respect and camaraderie still reign supreme — and that legends like Manpreet Singh dese
rve nothing less.
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