CT M 2016: Quoting even second string teams used to beat India, and coming against such a recent history, first hockey player to crack 400 caps, and Member of Parliament Dilip Tirkey hailed India’s maiden entry into the Champions Trophy.

In the recent past, we used to be beaten even by second string teams of Europe and Australia. Now our hockey has improved by leaps and bounds. The proof is India’s first entry into the London Champions Trophy”, said elated Dilip Tirkey, who led India t Amstelveen Champions Trophy 13 years ago.

“I vividly remember how we lost medal chances in the 90s and 2000s. One mistake or other cost us bronze medal many times. Now it feels nice we are sure of almost silver medal”, sitting BJD parliamentarian opined.

Under his captaincy, India lost to Pakistan twice in the bronze medal match in 2002 and 2003.He carries a feeling of regret and dissatisfaction even today.

“Our team under Roelant Oltmans is doing better and better”.

We won a bronze last year end, now we will at least silver if not gold. It feels very nice”, the jewel from Sundargarh said.

“As a former player I am happy”

“At the same time, I wish the team success in the final against Australia”, said Dilip who has been in the Indian Champions Trophy teams for almost ten years since 1996.

“This is also a great moment for Indian sports which is all gearing up for Rio”, wound off Dilip, who is now a practicing politicians, often seen debating in the Upper House of Parliament.

Dilip played for India for a good 15 years from 1995 before a knee injury cut his hockey career short.