By The Hockey Paper
Sardar Singh, the former India captain, reportedly retired from international hockey on Wednesday, ending a lengthy service with the national men’s team.
With just over two months until the World Cup in India, Sardar, who has made over 350 international appearances, was left out of India’s 25-strong national camp next week at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
“I have played almost 12 years for the country and it’s a long time. Now it’s the time for the next generation to take over the baton,” the 32-year-old Sardar Singh told The Hindustan Times.
Having been left out of the Commonwealth Games squad, he fought his way back into the squad as India won silver at the last Champions Trophy before they failed to defend their title at the recent Asian Games.
Sardar believed he was fit enough to play hockey for a few more years, but felt that the current timing was best to “start thinking about new ventures.”
“I have discussed about my future with Hockey India and national coach Harendra Singh and they are convinced about my decision,” he added.
Sardar started his national junior career 15 years ago before making his senior debut againt Pakistan in 2006.
He won two silver medals at the Commonwealth Games in 2010 and 2014 and was included in the FIH All Star team in 2010 and 2011.
He was also the youngest player to captain an India side at the 2008 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
