Did Hockey India Honor Krishan Pathak for His 150th International Game?
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Synopsis
Hockey India proudly acknowledges goalkeeper Krishan B Pathak for his remarkable achievement of 150 international appearances. A journey from junior champion to national icon, Pathak's story is an inspiring testament to dedication in sports, especially as he contributes to India's ongoing success in the Asia Cup. Discover how his journey unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Krishan B Pathak reached 150 international caps.
- He has been instrumental in India's recent sporting success.
- Pathak's journey from junior hockey to the national team exemplifies dedication.
- He received prestigious awards recognizing his talent in goalkeeping.
- His achievements inspire the next generation of hockey players.
Rajgir, Aug 31 (NationPress) Hockey India celebrated men's team goalkeeper Krishan B Pathak for reaching the impressive milestone of 150 international caps. The 28-year-old, originally from Kapurthala, Punjab, accomplished this extraordinary feat during India’s second match in the ongoing Asia Cup against Japan at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
India kicked off their journey with an exhilarating 4-3 victory over China, featuring a hat-trick from captain Harmanpreet Singh along with a goal from Jugraj Singh. The team is now focused on maintaining their winning streak.
Pathak gained recognition for his agility and reliability in goal, first making headlines as part of the Gold medal-winning Indian junior team at the FIH Junior World Cup 2016 held in Lucknow. He debuted in senior international hockey against Japan during the Four Nations Tournament in January 2018 and quickly secured his position in the national squad.
Since then, he has contributed to many of India’s notable victories, including the 2018 Asian Champions Trophy (Joint Gold with Pakistan), the 2022 Asian Games Gold in Hangzhou, and successive Asian Champions Trophy titles in 2023 and 2024.
His exceptional skills have earned him significant accolades, including the Hockey India Baljit Singh Award for Goalkeeper of the Year twice (2019, 2022) and the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2024.
Pathak became a crucial part of India’s defense during the FIH Men’s Hockey Pro League in both 2020/21 and 2021/22, where his vital saves helped India secure a podium finish. He was also a member of the team that won a silver medal at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games and participated in the FIH Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup 2023 in Bhubaneswar-Rourkela. Following the retirement of legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh post the Paris 2024 Olympics, Pathak has become the primary choice for India's goalkeeping.
Reflecting on his milestone, Krishan B Pathak stated, “This is a very special moment for me and my family. Representing India 150 times is a dream I never envisioned when I began my hockey journey in Kapurthala. Every cap holds significance, but this milestone is particularly meaningful as it coincides with such an important tournament for us.
“I am thankful to my coaches, teammates, and everyone at Hockey India who believed in me and supported me throughout my journey. My focus now is on contributing to the team's success and inspiring the next generation of goalkeepers in India.”
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey congratulated Pathak stating, “Krishan has been a cornerstone of Indian hockey in recent years. Goalkeeping is a challenging position, and he has consistently performed on major platforms. His journey from the Junior World Cup in 2016 to becoming India's first-choice goalkeeper is an inspiring tale for every young athlete. On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate him on achieving 150 international caps and wish him many more accomplishments ahead.”
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh remarked, “We take immense pride in Krishan’s accomplishments. His remarkable dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport have played a significant role in India's success lately, and he continues to be a role model for aspiring athletes. Achieving 150 caps is not just a personal feat but also a testament to his contributions to Indian hockey.”
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the significance of Krishan Pathak's achievement in the realm of Indian sports. His dedication, skill, and journey from youth to becoming a first-choice goalkeeper serve as a beacon for aspiring athletes. Celebrating such milestones not only honors individual accomplishments but also inspires the next generation of sports enthusiasts. Hockey India’s recognition of Pathak's efforts underscores the importance of perseverance and teamwork in achieving excellence.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Krishan Pathak's 150 caps?
Achieving 150 international caps is a monumental milestone for any athlete, showcasing their dedication, skill, and longevity in sports. For Krishan Pathak, it highlights his vital role in Indian hockey and his contributions to the team's successes in major tournaments.
Where did Krishan Pathak begin his hockey career?
Krishan Pathak began his hockey career in Kapurthala, Punjab, where he developed his skills and passion for the sport before rising to prominence in the national team.
What major tournaments has Krishan Pathak participated in?
Pathak has participated in significant tournaments, including the FIH Junior World Cup, Asian Champions Trophy, Asian Games, and the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, contributing to India's success in these events.
What awards has Krishan Pathak received?
Krishan Pathak is a two-time recipient of the Hockey India Baljit Singh Award for Goalkeeper of the Year and was honored with the Arjuna Award in 2024, recognizing his outstanding contributions to hockey.
Who congratulated Krishan Pathak on his achievement?
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey and secretary general Bhola Nath Singh extended their congratulations to Pathak, acknowledging his significant contributions to Indian hockey and his inspiring journey.
