The Asian Age”

New Delhi:

July 27: Captain of the 1975 hockey World Cup-winning squad, Ajitpal Singh watched with tear-filled eyes as images of the Indian team waving the tri-colour at Kuala Lumpur after beating Pakistan 2-1 in the final flashed on the screen.

One of the most prized moments of Indian hockey’s glorious history, the images depicted India’s supremacy and the passion involved with the sport during those days.

As India prepares to host the mega-event in March next year, members of the 1975 team want the team “to bring back the coveted trophy to put Indian hockey back on the world map again”.

Said Ajitpal, “I had tears in my eyes as the video was played. It was a special moment.

“It was for the first time after the 1975 World Cup that all of us saw those pictures. It brought back the memories and the passion involved.”

He though was realistic when asked about India’s chances in the 2010 World Cup at New Delhi. “I think the current team is not ready yet.

“We have hired a foreign coach some time back, and the team have begun to train properly. It will take some time to build a strong unit, and I hope the boys will be fit and ready by March next year.”

B.P. Govinda, who played a crucial role in India’s 1975 triumph, felt India’s inability to keep up with the changing times forced the decline.

“I think we haven’t been able to cope up with the rest of the countries. Things were different when we played.

“Hockey has become a power game now and requires utmost fitness levels. How long will we survive on skills alone? We may be the best in individual skills, but it is crucial to train according to modern needs. Skills without power would not take us far.”

The appointment of Spain’s Jose Brasa as the chief coach a few months back has rekindled hope in hockey circles. A stickler for modern methods, Brasa has stressed on the need for physical fitness from Day One.

Govinda agreed. “I think we are finally moving in the right direction. If the new coach trains the team in a professional manner, we can finish a creditable third of fourth in the upcoming World Cup.”

Added Ajitpal, “The Delhi World Cup is a great chance for India to get their act together and put themselves on the world map again. A good performance will also bring in fans, sponsors and media.”

Col. Harcharan Singh, Ashok Dewan and H.J.S. Chimni were the other members of the 1975 squad present on the occasion.