Whenever Indian hockey has notched some achievement, it has often been followed by some disaster. It was true this year as well, when the team had to face the resignation of coach Terry Walsh after a successful stint under him.
If one would try to draw a parallel of Indian hockey and its lows and compare it with a player, it would be none other than Lalit Upadhay.
Lalit’s story is the same. At the peak of his career, when he should have been representing the country and winning laurels, the young player from Uttar Pradesh was instead caught up in the politics of the federations and his career was almost finished after his name propped up in the sting operation by a TV channel.
So when early this year, Hockey India League franchise Kalinga Lancers purchased him, he knew it was a second life for him and he could use it as an attempt to get back in the team. He did exactly the same.
Though his selection for the Champions trophy has not come as a surprise after his recent performance, he remains the only player in the team who is least capped.
“I made my debut in the World Cup held early this year. I was also the part of the Australian tour. I have not played a lot of matches, but whenever I have, I have always given my best,” Lalit said on the sidelines of the practice session.
Choosing not to speak about the controversy in the career, he says his focus is completely on Champions trophy and there is excitement for the same.
“It was unfortunate. But, I don’t think about it. I don’t try to bring negative thoughts in my mind anymore. It’s time to move forward,” Lalit added.
“The team is currently looking forward for the Champions Trophy. Since the tournament is being held in India, it is more exciting and special. Bhubaneswar is also my home-ground as I play for Kalinga Lancers in Hockey India League.”
Lalit is quick to see India in the top-four and says the target is realistic. “A top-four finish is what we are looking at. If we play according to the instructions we have been given by our coaches, the target is achievable,” he said.