Belgians have to think hard to surpass me and Harjot: PR Sreejesh

The Hague, Netherlands: Post the double injuries which have hit the Indian team ahead of the Rabobank Hockey World Cup 2014, the team is not loosing focus and is motivated as well as geared up to meet their rivals on the pitch.

Speaking on the upcoming challenges Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh said, “Yes while we will be missing out on both Nikkin Thimmaiah and Ramandeep Singh, it has not dampened our spirits; rather we are more determined to win. We will play to win for them as their hopes are pinned on us. The first game is critical for both India as well as the Belgians. The Belgium side at The Hague is one of the most experienced team with ten players having surpassed the 100 international appearances mark but I feel that our team which is a combination of young and experienced players will give them a tough challenge,” he said.

“Our opening match in the World Cup will be a war between Jeremy Gucassoff & Vincent Vanasch the goalkeepers of Belgium on one side and with Harjot Singh and I on the other side. Let’s see who is able to save more goals for their country. For both of us Indians, we are up for the challenge and will ensure we are the winners. Winners for not only saving the goals but also winners in the winning team. So I think the Belgians need to think hard and strategise themselves to surpass us,” he added.


With 94 international caps and his second opportunity to represent India for World Cup, PR Sreejesh is the senior goalkeeper in the team. Since his debut PR Sreejesh has represented the country in important tournaments like FIH World Cup in 2010, Asian Champions Trophy in 2011, FIH Champions Challenge in 2011, Asian Champions Trophy in 2012, Olympic Games in 2012, Hockey World League Round 2 played in 2013 in India, Hockey World League Semi-final played in 2013 in Netherlands and Hockey World League Finals played in 2014 in India.

India will clash against Belgium in their first game of Rabobank Hockey World Cup 2014 which will be telecasted live on Ten Sports on 31st May 2014 at 19:30 hrs (IST).