Manpreet equals Dilip Tirkey’s record, set to become India’s most-capped hockey player

Indian men’s hockey team veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh from Jalandhar is on the verge of creating history after equalling the long-standing national record for the most international appearances by an Indian hockey player.

The 33-year-old matched the landmark tally of 412 international matches, previously held by former India captain and current Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, when he took the field against the Netherlands in Rotterdam. With his next appearance, Manpreet is expected to become the most-capped player in the history of Indian men’s hockey.

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The achievement marks another significant milestone in the career of the experienced midfielder, who has been one of the central figures in India’s hockey resurgence over the past decade. Manpreet is now part of an elite group of players worldwide to have crossed the 400-match mark at the senior international level and remains the only active Indian player to reach the feat.

Over the years, Manpreet has represented India in several major tournaments, including the Olympic Games, Hockey World Cup, Asian Games, and Champions Trophy. He was also a key member of the Indian squad that secured a historic bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, ending the country’s decades-long wait for an Olympic podium finish in hockey.

His consistent performances, leadership abilities, and vast international experience have earned him recognition as one of the finest midfielders produced by Indian hockey in recent years. Hockey experts believe his contribution has played an important role in helping India regain its status among the world’s leading hockey nations.

The achievement has sparked celebrations in Punjab, particularly in and around his native area, where residents have been following his journey with pride. Family members, friends, and residents described the milestone as a moment of honour for the state and the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Ravinder Singh, identified in the event as the father of a hockey player associated with the celebrations, said the record reflected years of dedication, sacrifice, and hard work. He expressed happiness that a player from Punjab had reached such a remarkable stage in international hockey.

Manpreet’s friend Josh said the midfielder’s rise from local grounds to the highest level of world hockey serves as an inspiration for young athletes. He noted that the record was the result of discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the sport.

Residents of Mithapur village also welcomed the achievement. A local woman said the entire community was proud of Manpreet’s accomplishment and hoped he would continue to bring laurels to India by setting new benchmarks in international hockey.

With another international appearance likely to take him past Tirkey’s tally, Manpreet now stands poised to become the most-capped player ever to represent India in men’s hockey, further cementing his place among the legends of the sport.