Will Poovanna Make His India Debut After Injury Recovery?

Bengaluru, May 16 (NationPress) After a short period with the Indian junior squad in 2023, Poovanna Chandura Boby is now engaged in training with the senior core team as they prepare for the European segment of the FIH Hockey Pro League. The 22-year-old is currently part of the senior national camp at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre in Bengaluru and has secured a position in the 40-member core group.

During his time with the junior team, Poovanna had significant success, clinching gold and bronze medals at the 2022 and 2023 Sultan of Johar Cup, respectively. He was also a member of the squad that won the men’s Junior Asia Cup in 2023 and entered the senior national camp in August 2024.

Reflecting on his training experience, Poovanna shared, “Having played for the junior team in 2023 and now training alongside senior players, I notice a significant gap between us. There’s a lot of effort required to reach that level. Your fitness alone isn't enough; you must improve considerably to compete against European teams. While we tire during each session, we must push ourselves to keep pace. This journey has been incredible so far.”

He participated in the Hockey India League 2024/25 for the champions, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, but he was unable to complete the tournament due to an unfortunate injury. In their seventh match against JSW Soorma Hockey Club, Poovanna sustained a facial injury while defending a penalty corner.

“It was a penalty corner, and I usually don’t rush in, so I wasn't wearing my face mask. Harmanpreet Singh took a shot that deflected off a teammate's stick and struck my upper cheek. I had to leave the field immediately and undergo surgery. Consequently, I couldn't participate in the rest of the tournament,” he clarified.

Poovanna also disclosed that he could have made his senior team debut during the home leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 in Bhubaneswar but missed the chance due to his injury. “Fortunately, we secured victory in the HIL, but the coach informed me that I was selected for the Pro League squad, which I couldn't attend because of my injury. Therefore, I joined the camp early and worked with the physio to prepare for the training camp in March,” he added.

Originating from Kodagu, formerly known as Coorg, Poovanna hails from a family with a proud hockey legacy. The Kodava hockey festival is famous worldwide for being one of the largest hockey tournaments, with numerous families participating as part of their tradition.

“As a child, I used to watch those matches and aspired to wear my family jersey, which motivated me to start playing in school, where I naturally excelled. Representing my family team was a dream come true for me, and I subsequently pursued the sport professionally. I have never had a Plan B; hockey has always been my primary focus,” he stated.

Discussing his rapport with senior players, Poovanna emphasized, “The veterans are very approachable, and we youngsters gain a wealth of knowledge from them since they possess far more experience. We must learn from them to carry on their legacy in the years to come.”

“I have great admiration for Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh as they play the same midfield position as I do. I admire their calmness and composure when they possess the ball and advance the game. Their on-field actions are truly inspiring,” he mentioned.

Poovanna also praised the coaching of Craig Fulton. “I am currently training under him, and he is exceptional. He is approachable, and you can ask him anything; he provides clear answers. During training, if someone makes a mistake, he pauses the game to offer guidance, which is incredibly beneficial and provides valuable insights,” he remarked.

After missing an opportunity in February, Poovanna is resolute about making his debut for the Indian senior team and securing his place in the squad during the European leg of the FIH Pro League. “This upcoming tournament is vital for me, and I will diligently work on my weaknesses and give my utmost in every opportunity I receive,” he concluded on an optimistic note.