Indian goalkeeper Karkera takes inspiration from the life of a 1971 war hero

WHENEVER Suraj Karkera feels a little low, he turns to his book shelf for inspiration. He frequently reads biographies—'Invictus: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation' is a favourite—for motivation. One such autobiography moved him to such an extent he was compelled to meet and talk to the author.

- SWAROOP SWAMINATHAN @Bhubaneswar

WHENEVER Suraj Karkera feels a little low, he turns to his book shelf for inspiration. He frequently reads biographies—'Invictus: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation' is a favourite—for motivation. One such autobiography moved him to such an extent he was compelled to meet and talk to the author. Ian Cardozo, a decorated Army Major who played a big role in the 1971 War against Pakistan.

This was around the time when Karkera had lost his place in the side. These days, Karkera is battling with Krishan Pathak to be the No. 1 custodian for the national team. A couple of years ago, when PR Sreejesh was the numero uno, Karkera, after making his senior debut in 2017, was out of the picture.

The life of a reserve goalkeeper can be a tough gig and Karkera knew he had to be patient, show some resilience. One day, he chanced upon '1971: Stories of Grit and Glory From the Indo-Pak War'. After reading it, he got in touch with Cardozo and requested a meeting.