Though HI has decided to field a 'B' side for the Games since most of the main players will be busy with the Hockey India League (HIL) beginning on January 18, Gurbaj understands how big an opportunity this would be for him to be in the squad for Rio Olympics.
It was Thursday evening when Gurbaj Singh got a call from Hockey India about his return to the national team for the South Asian Games (SAG) in Guwahati and Shillong from February 5 to 15.
Though HI has decided to field a 'B' side for the Games since most of the main players will be busy with the Hockey India League (HIL) beginning on January 18, Gurbaj understands how big an opportunity this would be for him to be in the squad for Rio Olympics.
"I am thankful to HI for providing me yet another opportunity. This has come as a big boost to me, keeping the Olympics in mind. Although the selection is for the 'B' team, I will give my 100 per cent at the SAG and look to win back my place in the national side," Gurbaj said on his return.
"I would have loved to play in the HIL alongside my teammates. I was hoping to find a place in the HIL reserve list of players, but that did not happen. I am not complaining. I will make full use of this opportunity," he added.
A strong showing in SAG may open a window for him to return to the national side for the upcoming Olympics in August.
It must be mentioned here that Gurbaj dragged Hockey India (HI) to the court after its disciplinary committee imposed a nine-month ban on him over charges of 'misbehaviour and groupism' in the team. He has conveyed his availability to the federation and will join the camp at the Major Dhyan Chand National stadium here from January 10. The three-week long camp will be held under the watchful eyes of coaches BJ Cariappa and Gundeep Singh.
Gurbaj has to not only lead a bunch of young and inexperienced players in the Games but also set an example for others by his behaviour and conduct on and off the field.
HI has taken a lenient view on Gurbaj with the hope that the veteran of more than 200 internationals would return a reformed player after his five-month exile.
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