Gurjinder could be next Sandeep: Rehan Butt

MUMBAI: Former Pakistan captain Rehan Butt, who is leading Chandigarh Comets in the ongoing World Series Hockey, feels the event will have a positive effect on the game in the country, as it has brought many talented youngsters to the fore. Excerpts:

How has been your experience so far?

The experience has been terrific, both on the field and away from it. You have to understand that hockey players have never been treated as professionals before. Not even at the Olympics, which is the highest stage for sportspersons, do players get money for playing for their country. It feels good when your exploits are watched by fans back home, thanks to the live coverage of the matches.

How would you compare WSH with the European league?

I have played for many years in the European league, and have enjoyed my time there. But frankly, I feel a league held over six months is a bit too long for hockey. In comparison, the WSH is shorter and fast-paced. If you look across other sports and take cricket’s example, the shorter format is proving to be more popular these days.

As skipper, are you satisfied with Comets’ performance so far?

I think we were a bit sluggish at the beginning of the tournament, but the youngsters learnt quickly how to play at this level. Even I learnt a lot from playing in the European league. The modern mantra in hockey is ‘give and go’. Basically, it means release the ball quickly and do other things on the field to make an impact.

Our drag-flicker Gurjinder Singh is very young, but is extremely talented. He could become the next Sandeep Singh for India. Our second goalkeeper, Jyoti, is just 18, but he has been brilliant. There are many other youngsters who have been very impressive. It augurs well for Indian hockey.