Harendra Singh coaching dream comes true as India takes on Malaysia at Rajgir Sports Complex
Rajgir, Bihar: The Indian national hockey team, coached by Harendra Singh, is set to take on Malaysia in the Asian Champions Trophy at the Rajgir Sports Complex on Monday. This marks a historic opportunity for Singh, who has been promoted to coach the national team under his birthplace.
Singh expressed his immense joy and gratitude during a press conference on Sunday afternoon, reminiscing about only two coaches - V Baskaran Sir and Late MK Kaushik Bhai - who had achieved this feat. The Bihar government and Hockey India are credited with giving Singh the opportunity to coach the team in his birthplace.
"This is a matter of great happiness for me, and I want to thank the Bihar govt and Hockey India for giving me this platform and opportunity," said Singh. "I aim to make it successful not only for myself but also for my state."
The tournament marks the first time that Bihar will host an international hockey event, which promises to usher in a new era of sports in the state. The Rajgir Sports Complex was conceptualized by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in 2012 as part of the government's ambitious plan to develop sports in the state.
"We decided to develop sports in Bihar on a big scale under the leadership of chief minister Nitish Kumar," said Ravindran Sankaran, director general, Bihar State Sports Authority. "This will not only benefit the youngsters but also earn significant support from various sectors."
The coach stressed that hockey will initiate a change in mindsets, and the youth of the state should utilize the facilities provided by the government to pursue sports as their career.
For Harendra Singh, this marks his first proper tournament as the Indian national team coach. The team will look to make a strong start against Malaysia on Monday, with Singh eager to taste success and pave way for Bihar's sports legacy.
The Match:
- Date: Monday
- Opponent: Malaysia
- Venue: Rajgir Sports Complex
- Time: [insert time]
Stay tuned for live updates and coverage of the Asian Champions Trophy.