New Face New Force: Akashdeep Singh
Short riddle: Name the Indian player who has debuted for the senior team for India and has his elder brother playing for the junior team?
Akashdeep Singh, is only 18 years old and debuted earlier this month in the Champions Trophy. Coach Micheal Nobbs says that Akashdeep is the quietest of the lot and the youngest, too.
Earlier in November, when Akashdeep was leaving for Jr. Asia Cup at Johar Baru, Malaysia, he got to learn from the internet post, he has been selected for the Senior team bound for Australia tour – Super 9s and Champions Trophy.
“It was a great feeling to be selected for the Indian team,” says a shy Akashdeep.
Interestingly, Akashdeep was knocking at the Indian team doors for a while now. Coming up in a clinical manner, he has been called for India (Sr.) camps before and has made many appearances for the Junior team as well.
Initiated to Hockey at the age of twelve, Akashdeep is a product of Ludhiana Academy (for 2 years) followed by Surjit Academy. He plans to pursue an admission in graduation in Arts now.
A huge fan of Barcelona, this hazle-eyed Indian forward, has learnt few tricks of the trade by observing Messi’s game.
“I enjoy watching Messi when he moves forward and with his left leg forward, on the move, he flicks the ball to the left from behind using his right leg,” shares this not-so-internet savvy youngster, “I try doing that in my game, too.”
As for all youngsters hailing from Punjab and many other Indian upcoming players, Sardara Singh is the role model for this lad too.
On his game, Akashdeep is aware that he is making mistakes on the field; he is keen to correct it and move forward.
“I want to improve on my running with or without the ball,” shares this Delhi Wave Riders’ member.
A fan of Chak De India movie, he wants to play along with Toon de Nooijer one day.
And does this young blood boil often and gets angry on any one?
Akashdeep replies nonchalantly, “No, nothing makes me angry and the only person whom I get angry at is my own self. When I don’t perform well, I become angry with myself.”
Shouldn’t all of us be cool-headed like this promising Indian Hockey player?
Solution to the riddle: Akashdeep’s elder brother is Pradbdeep Singh.