One year after his debut, Rajinder Singh has solidified his position as a central figure in India's hockey plans. Since being elevated to the senior side, the midfielder has made remarkable progress. His selection for the ongoing Asia Cup over experienced players like Shamsher Singh and Gurjant Singh highlights the faith the team management has in his abilities.
Rajinder's journey to the national team is a story of dedication and learning from the best. Growing up in Sant Nagar, Haryana, the same village as former India captain Sardar Singh, Rajinder idolized him and began playing hockey at a pitch laid by Sardar at the Namdhari Academy in Sirsa. He joined the academy in 2014 and had the opportunity to train with Sardar during the COVID-19 lockdown. These sessions were crucial in shaping Rajinder's skills, particularly in receiving the ball, beating players with his first touch, and improving his backhand form. He also learned the importance of controlling the ball and knowing when to switch to attack, a vital skill for a midfielder.
Rajinder's performances in junior tournaments paved the way for his entry into the senior team. He played a key role in India's victories at the 2022 Sultan of Johor Cup and the 2023 Junior Asia Cup. His consistent performance at the 2023 National Championships further strengthened his case for a spot in the national team.
Rajinder made his senior international debut in October 2024 in a two-match series against Germany. Initially, he found it challenging to adapt to the international level, but he quickly learned and improved. In just over ten matches, he has evolved into a midfielder capable of both defending and creating scoring opportunities.
In the Hockey India League 2024/25 season, Rajinder's value was underscored when the Hyderabad Toofans acquired him for ₹23 lakh, significantly more than his base price of ₹2 lakh. Although he was often overshadowed by other youngsters in the Toofans setup, he played a crucial role in helping them finish as runners-up. This performance further solidified his place in Fulton's plans.
Rajinder's ability to learn from senior players has been instrumental in his development. He has stated that Hardik Singh and Manpreet Singh, who play in the midfield with him, provide guidance and support. Harmanpreet Singh, the captain, also helps him with his positioning.
Rajinder is also working on improving his drag-flicking skills to become a more potent threat during penalty corners. Despite the challenges and the pressure of international hockey, Rajinder remains focused on his game. He is determined to contribute to the team's success and is constantly working on his fitness and skills.
As India prepares for upcoming tournaments, including the Asia Cup, Rajinder's role in the midfield will be crucial. His ability to win the ball, distribute it effectively, and create scoring opportunities will be vital to India's chances of success. With a blend of skill, determination, and guidance from experienced players, Rajinder is poised to be a key player for India in the years to come.
