Asian Games snub motivated me to make a comeback: Mandeep Singh

NEW DELHI: The snub from the Asian Games gold medal-winning team motivated me to work harder and make a strong comeback into the Indian men's hockey team, said promising forward Mandeep Singh after his selection in the Sutlan Azlan Cup to be held in Ipoh, Malaysia.

After being ignored for the Asian Games and Champions Trophy squad, Mandeep put up an impressive display in this year's Hero Hockey India League to impress the selectors and make a comeback in the national team.

"I was part of the World Cup squad in June last year but since then I missed out on other important tournaments. I was unlucky that I was not part of the gold winning team of the Asian Games. It motivated me to work even harder and make a strong comeback," Mandeep said.

"After missing out from the core team of the Asian Games, I went to the drawing board and understood where I was lacking. I worked hard on my loopholes and I was aware that the Hockey India League will be the platform for me to prove myself. Luckily I found my form and I gave my best during that period. I am happy that my hard work has paid off," he said.

The 24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup will be played from April 5 to 12 where six teams -- India, hosts Malaysia, Australia, Canada, Korea and New Zealand will fight for the title.