New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) Originating from a state renowned for its illustrious hockey history, featuring legends such as MP Ganesh, MM Somaya, AB Subbiah, Ashish Ballal, Arjun Halappa, and more recently Raghunath VR, SK Uthappa, Nikkin Thimmaiah, and SV Sunil, all of whom represented India in the 2016 Rio Olympics, a new hopeful in the realm of hockey, PB Sunil, is eager to uphold Karnataka's hockey heritage.

While his fellow state players Mohd. Raheel, Abharan Sudev, and HS Mohit have fluctuated in their participation in the men's senior national team, Sunil's recent achievements at the FIH Men's Junior Hockey World Cup, where the team secured a bronze medal, brings renewed optimism for the state’s resurgence in this sport.

Hailing from the humble village of Anavatti in Sorab Taluk, Shivamogga district, Sunil began his journey in hockey at the age of 10 through the DYES Sports hostel. Coming from a family of daily wage laborers in agriculture, Sunil's ascent in hockey represents a beacon of hope for his family.

Recently signed by the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers for INR 2 lakh, Sunil recognizes the significance of delivering a strong performance in the Hockey India League. He stated, “Winning the Junior World Cup was a dream realized, but now that's behind me. My focus is on excelling with the Kalinga Lancers, which has a great blend of players from whom I can learn this season.”

On Karnataka's rich hockey history, he remarked, “Initially, I had little knowledge about hockey and the state's contributions, but being part of the national setup has instilled a sense of responsibility in me, motivating me to strive for greatness like our former champions.”

Playing alongside Olympic gold medallists Arthur Van Doren and Alexander Hendrickx excites Sunil, particularly as a defender, as he believes he can gain invaluable insights from these global icons who have excelled over the past decade.

“For a defender, learning from the top names in world hockey is invaluable. Both Arthur and Alex are exceptional defensively and exhibit profound tactical awareness, especially in penalty corner situations,” he noted.

“During the month at HIL, I aim to absorb not only their on-field skills but also their match preparation, off-field conduct, and relaxation methods. This proximity to international hockey stars is a unique opportunity,” he added.

Sunil's passion for hockey is driven by the belief that success in the sport will improve his family's financial situation. “We have a small half-acre plot in our village, and making ends meet is challenging, but I am hopeful that my achievements in hockey will secure me a job. With Hockey India's cash awards for significant victories and the earnings from Hockey India League, I am confident that my family's circumstances will improve,” he shared.

The Vedanta Kalinga Lancers are set to kick off their campaign against the Ranchi Royals on January 4.