Thakur hopes to keep scoring
Nitin Sharma
Chandigarh: For someone who spent the last two years being completely sidelined, Deepak Thakur’s re-emergence on the Indian Hockey scene resembles a dream.
In the early 2000s, the Chandigarh-based forward formed a formidable trio along with Gagan Ajit Singh and Prabhjot Singh, before heading into oblivion after the 2006 Commonwealth Games, his last international outing. With the team set for a tough calendar this year, Thakur, who played a pivotal role in both of India’s wins against Argentina, is hoping to carry his form into the Punjab Gold Cup.
“I made my debut against Germany in 1999, and the last time I played them was during the 2004 Champions Trophy. They have a very intelligent coach in (Markus) Weise and it will be tough to counter their every move,” says Thakur, who played for the Stuttgart Kickers in the German League during his isolation from international hockey.
Valuable experience
Thakur rates the experience high and hopes it will come in handy against Germany in Chandigarh. “The German League sees the participation of some of the world’s best players and I gained a lot from playing with the likes of Max Weinhold, Max Muller and Tobias Hauke,” he says.
The 28-year-old also believes that playing at home will help boost India’s confidence. “The Argentina series gave me a chance to gain some confidence. I have been playing alongside Prabhjot and Rajpal but it was good playing with Tushar Khandker and Shivendra Singh. We showed some fine form during the tour and we are looking to continue the camaraderie,” says Thakur.
Courtesy: Indian Express