Tirkey is 399 not out
Mihir Vasavda
Sunday, April 5,

Mumbai: From a 17-year-old lad who made his international debut against England in 1995 to a seasoned pro — who perhaps is the best in the business presently — Dilip Tirkey’s career has come a full circle.

Usually calm and self composed, the 31-year-old defender from a remote village in Orrisa is already the most-capped Indian player and he accepts his career has been nothing short of a roller-coaster. The former captain is set to reach two major landmarks during the Azlan Shah Cup, which begins in Ipoh, Malaysia, on Sunday.

Firstly, he will reach the landmark of 400 appearances for India when he takes the field against Egypt. During the tournament, he is all set to become the most capped player in the world. Tirkey will overtake Dutchman Jeroen Delmee (who has 401 appearances to his name) when India take on New Zealand in their third match on April 9.

“It is a big honour,” Tirkey said. “For someone like me, who comes from a small village of Orrisa, this is something I never imagined. I always wanted to play for India but never thought I would be the most capped player one day.”

Perhaps not many people understand the nuances of this sport as Tirkey does but even he has had to overcome several obstacles to hold on to his place in the national squad. “He is aware of his responsibilities and is a perfect guide for all the youngsters. It’s a shame when anyone points finger at him,” India coach Harendra Singh said, referring to the allegations made by several former players about lack of fitness of the senior players.

Even KPS Gill, the president of the now dissolved IHF and former chief selector believes Tirkey is a role model, who is highly underrated. “A look at his track record will defy all his detractors. He has been a great servant of the game and is one of the great players India has produced,” Gill, during whose regime Tirkey cemented his place in the national team, said.

One thing that has Tirkey, and all the players of his generation is the Olympic and World Cup success, and ‘The Wall’ of Indian hockey feels the pinch. “It’s disappointing that we haven’t done well in Olympics though we had a great opportunity at the Sydney Games. Now my target is to win the World Cup on home soil next year. If that happens, it will be a dream come true for me,” Tirkey rounded off.

Courtesy: DNA