New Delhi: Hockey India celebrated a remarkable milestone as they honoured the accomplished Keralite goalkeeper and former captain of the Indian hockey team, PR Sreejesh, for his extraordinary feat of completing 300 matches for the country. The celebrated sportsman was bestowed with a special cap adorned with the number ‘300’ and a commemorative memento; all presented in the presence of his esteemed team members.
Expressing his gratitude in a heartfelt speech, an emotional Sreejesh pledged to continue bringing glory to the nation. “It’s a team effort that has shaped me into who I am today and why I stand here. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my teammates for their unwavering support and guidance during crucial times. Hockey is the thread that binds us all together,” he said.
In his role as a goalkeeper, Sreejesh highlighted the value of providing additional guidance to the team. He emphasised the meticulous analysis of the game from the confines of the stadium and shared his commitment to sharing insights during team meetings. As a custodian of the net, he takes it upon himself to offer clear instructions to his teammates, ensuring seamless execution of strategies on the field.
Sreejesh also acknowledged the collaborative role played by his fellow goalkeeper, Krishan Pathak. He praised the team’s frontline defence, showcasing the coordinated efforts that led to Japan being unable to register a single shot on goal in a recent match.
The accolades bestowed upon Sreejesh are a testament to his stellar career in Indian hockey. Following India’s triumphant bronze medal win in the Tokyo Olympics, he was awarded the prestigious Major Dhyanchand Khel Ratna, the nation’s highest sports honour. Additionally, Sreejesh was part of the Indian contingent that secured a silver medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. His leadership capabilities were evident when he captained the Indian hockey team, including during the Rio 2016 Olympics. Over the years, Sreejesh has transitioned into a mentor’s role within the team, imparting valuable insights and experience to his fellow athletes. His contributions were recognised with the Arjuna Award in 2015 and the Padma Shri in 2017.
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