As Hockey India kicks off its nationwide World Cup Trophy Tour with its Centenary Celebrations that begin at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi on Friday, it’s a reminder to skipper Harmanpreet Singh, 29, that this is the only medal that’s missing from his trophy cabinet.

Indian hockey’s legacy
“Indian hockey’s legacy across 100 years is huge. Growing up, I was inspired by the great Olympic medal stories of the past [India won eight Olympic gold medals between 1928 and 1980, and a World Cup trophy in 1975]. I feel lucky and proud to be a part of this legacy. I never knew I would come this far and lead the Indian team. That’s my biggest personal achievement, but as a team, we have won back-to-back Olympic medals [Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024], Asian Games gold, Asia Cup gold, Asian Champions Trophy gold. These are all great achievements, but now our sole aim is to win that World Cup [August 14 to 30, 2026 in Wavre, Belgium and Amstelveen, Netherlands] medal. It’s the only one I don’t have. If I can get that, my career will be complete,” Harmanpreet told mid-day on Thursday.