New Delhi, Dec 27 (NationPress) As the Hockey India League (HIL) prepares for its second season on January 3 at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai, India’s talented midfielder Hardik Singh has opened up about his leadership role, the recognition he’s received, and the challenges that await.

In a candid interview with IANS, Hardik discussed a variety of topics, from his recommendation for the prestigious Khel Ratna award to the pressures that come with being a captain, as well as the valuable lessons the HIL offers.

When asked about the honor of being nominated for India's top sports accolade, Hardik remained humble yet acknowledged its importance. “I will await the official announcement. Winning two Olympic medals for our nation after 40 years, followed by back-to-back medals after 52 years, is an incredible feeling, and I appreciate that SAI (Sports Authority of India) and the Government of India recognize my efforts,” he stated.

“It's rare for athletes to win two Olympic medals. The hockey team has a few, along with maybe two, three, or four individual athletes. So yes, I would be thrilled to receive that award,” he added.

Hardik noted that leadership within the Indian team is a collective responsibility rather than an individual one, with senior players playing a crucial role in mentoring the younger members. “We are all captains, and every member has a voice in the team. In a captaincy role, I always prioritize looking after the juniors. I have learned immensely from veterans like Siri, Manpreet, Harman, and Sardara Singh.

“From Sardara Singh, I learned how essential it is to support juniors, helping them feel at ease before matches and allowing them to express their emotions. For tactics, seniors must collaborate with the coach to ensure the team is aligned. That's my philosophy,” he explained.

When asked if the captaincy adds pressure, Hardik acknowledged it does somewhat but emphasized perspective, stating, “To a certain degree. The more you dwell on it, the heavier it feels. If you view it as part of the game, knowing the team is there to support you, it becomes manageable. Sure, there are moments when you make a blunder and think, ‘Oh no, I'm the captain; how could I let that happen?’ But it’s all part of the game. We are human, and mistakes are part of our experience. It's about how we bounce back and enhance the team,” he said.

With a busy schedule ahead for Team India, Hardik believes the HIL provides a unique chance to face elite international competitors. “There’s a wealth of knowledge to gain from this league. We will have top international players from their respective countries joining our teams. Competing alongside them and sharing a locker room is a fantastic opportunity to gain insights.

“We can learn from their playing styles, how teams like Australia and the Netherlands operate, and understand the preparation methods of athletes from Australia and Belgium. Their mindset and how they balance life and hockey are also fascinating. It’s beneficial to observe their approach, particularly with upcoming international matches, as small details can significantly enhance our performance against them,” Hardik remarked.

Hardik views his role as captain of his HIL team as a continuation of his leadership experience with the national side. When asked if this experience would aid him when he returns as vice-captain for the Indian team, Hardik affirmed, “Absolutely. I’ve held a vice-captain position within the team, so I continue to embrace a leadership role. Seniors like Harman, Manpreet, and I are always learning from each tournament.

“Every experience, whether positive or negative, imparts valuable lessons. The next tournament is an opportunity to apply what we’ve learned, creating meaningful experiences. My aim is to manage pressure and guide the players, especially with many dynamics at play around the team.

“When the team entrusts me with this role, it reflects their confidence in my leadership. We might encounter more losses than victories, but that won’t discourage me. I view failures as stepping stones, and I strive to remain positive. If given this responsibility, I am totally committed,” Hardik concluded.

When queried about the most challenging rival in the league, Hardik quickly pointed to Hyderabad Toofans, acknowledging both their tactical prowess and the developing rivalry.

“The Hyderabad Toofans will be our toughest competitors. They recently aired a segment featuring a clip from one of my press conferences where I expressed a desire to defeat them. They have turned this into a rivalry, generating excitement among viewers, which could enhance viewership as well.

“Their tactical strength is formidable, particularly with their skilled Indian players like Nilakanta, Sumit, and Rajinder. Competing against such talent requires full alertness and maximum effort.

“Hyderabad Toofans are tactically sound, and their coaching staff, including Pasha (Gademan) and Emily (Calderon), have done a remarkable job. They finished second last year, and their strategic management deserves commendation,” he concluded.

The Men’s Hockey India League 2026 season will feature eight teams—Tamil Nadu Dragons, Hyderabad Toofans, JSW Soorma Hockey Club, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers (defending champions), Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers, and HIL Governing Council—battling it out in 23 league matches in a round-robin format, followed by playoff matches (Qualifier 1 and Eliminator on January 23; Qualifier 2 on January 25) and a grand finale on January 26 at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, totaling 33 thrilling matches.

Action begins on January 3 at Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai (from January 3-9), transitions to Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh AstroTurf in Ranchi (from January 11-16), and culminates at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar (from January 17-26), featuring daily double-headers that reflect FIH pressures while enhancing fan engagement through vibrant events and crowded venues.