The retirement of PR Sreejesh, a celebrated figure in Indian hockey, has left a significant void in the national team's defense. Sreejesh, known as "The Wall," concluded his illustrious career after India's bronze-winning performance at the Paris Olympics 2024. Now, Krishan Pathak and Suraj Karkera are stepping forward to fill the legendary goalkeeper's shoes.

Sukhjeet Singh has expressed the team's confidence in Pathak and Karkera, emphasizing their potential to continue Sreejesh's legacy. Both goalkeepers are eager to embrace this opportunity and establish their own identities as world-class players. Their first major assignment is to defend India's title at the Asian Champions Trophy 2024.

Krishan Pathak, a member of the 2016 Junior World Cup-winning squad, has been sharing goalkeeping duties with Sreejesh for over five years, earning 105 caps for India. Despite being in Sreejesh's shadow, Pathak has proven his abilities with quick reflexes and composure. He acknowledges the high standards set by Sreejesh and aims to elevate them further. Pathak recognizes the importance of mental strength in goalkeeping, emphasizing the need to learn from mistakes and move forward. He has played 153 games for India.

Suraj Karkera, who debuted for the senior team in 2017, brings consistency and a strong work ethic to the goalkeeping unit. He admires Sreejesh's intensity and fighting spirit and seeks to emulate those qualities. Karkera understands the importance of maintaining consistency and fostering a healthy competition with Pathak. He has played 72 international matches, with 31 of those in the last year alone.

The two goalkeepers share a good rapport, supporting each other and engaging in constructive discussions about their performances. They are focused on growing as a goalkeeping unit, pushing each other to reach their full potential. Dennis van de Pol, the Indian goalkeeping coach, notes that both Pathak and Karkera are performing well in their roles, working together effectively and taking on more leadership within the team.

While Pathak and Sreejesh have contrasting personalities – Sreejesh being vocal and aggressive, while Pathak is quieter and more composed – both have their strengths. Pathak's agility and quick reflexes complement Karkera's consistency and determination.

Both Pathak and Karkera recognize the challenges ahead and are determined to seize the opportunity to make their mark. The team trusts in their abilities to uphold the high standards set by Sreejesh and contribute to India's success in upcoming tournaments. Their performance in the upcoming Asian Games in Japan and the World Cup in The Netherlands will be a major test for the duo.