Manpreet Singh equals Dilip Tirkey's Indian record of 412 international caps
New Delhi, June 14
Indian men's hockey team midfielder Manpreet Singh on Saturday equalled former India captain and current Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey's national record of 412 international caps when he took the field in India's FIH Pro League 2025-26 match against the Netherlands in Rotterdam.
The 33-year-old became only the second Indian men's hockey player to reach the landmark and is currently the only active player in the elite club of players with more than 400 senior international appearances.
The milestone comes during a crucial phase of India's FIH Pro League campaign. The Harmanpreet Singh-led side entered the European leg of the tournament looking to improve its position in the standings after managing only four points from eight matches and finding itself near the bottom of the nine-team table.
Congratulating Manpreet on the achievement, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey said, "I congratulate Manpreet on reaching this significant milestone, which is a remarkable achievement and reflects his dedication, commitment and consistency over the years. I wish him the very best for the matches ahead and hope to see him play on many more occasions. We are grateful for his continued contributions to Indian hockey."
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh also praised the veteran midfielder for his contribution to the national team.
"Manpreet Singh's journey with the Indian Men's Hockey Team is a reflection of his immense dedication to the sport. To reach 412 international caps is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the consistency he has shown over the years while representing the country at the highest level," he said.
"Manpreet has played an important role in India's resurgence on the global stage. His leadership as a senior member of the team and ability to perform in high-pressure situations have made him an inspiration for aspiring hockey players across the country," Bhola Nath Singh added.
One of India's most experienced players, Manpreet has been a key figure in the team's rise over the past decade, featuring in multiple Olympic Games, World Cups, Asian Games and Champions Trophy campaigns. He was also a vital member of the Indian team that won the bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, ending the country's 41-year wait for an Olympic hockey medal.
India are scheduled to face Germany in back-to-back matches on June 17 and 18 before taking on the Netherlands again on June 21. The team will then travel to London for fixtures against Pakistan and England as it looks to secure valuable points and retain its place in the Pro League for next season.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Hats off to Manpreet bhai 🫡 Truly dedicated player but let's be honest here - he's been on the decline for a while now. Our Pro League form is terrible, and at 33, maybe it's time to give younger midfielders a chance? Still, respect for the record. Just thinking about team balance.
Brilliant achievement by Manpreet! As someone who follows hockey from the US, I've seen how he orchestrates the midfield. India's Olympic bronze wouldn't have been possible without his experience. Hope he continues inspiring the next generation. Big congrats from across the pond! 🇺🇸🏑
Congratulations, Manpreet Singh ji! 🎉 Yaar, it's not easy to play 412 matches for India. The fitness, the travel, the pressure... He deserves all the praise. But I do feel concerned - our team's recent form in Pro League is concerning. Hope this milestone boosts the team's morale for the Germany matches ahead! 🙏
Manpreet = Inspiration 💪 That Tokyo bronze was the highlight of our generation's hockey journey. Saw him play live in Bengaluru once - his vision on the field is unmatched. But 33 is old for a midfielder in modern hockey... Hopefully he can mentor players like Hardik Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad for the future.
So proud of our hockey heroes! 🏑 Manpreet and Dilip Tirkey both from Punjab - shows the rich hockey culture we have there. But the article rightly points out we are near the bottom in Pro League. We need to fix things urgently or risk relegation. Anyways, congratulations Manpreet bhai! India loves you ❤️
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