On the rise, Abhishek making games count

At a time when his colleagues are finding it difficult to keep their spots in the Indian hockey team, Abhishek Nain has quickly cemented his place in the Harmanpreet Singh-led side, emerging as the team's most potent force in the forward line.

- Sandip Sikdar

India hockey team forward Abhishek Nain.

(HOCKEY INDIA)

Having made his debut in 2022, Abhishek's skills with the stick, peripheral vision and knack of finding goals from impossible positions have made the 26-year-old the go-to player in the striking circle.

Having helped India claim the 2022 Commonwealth Games silver in what was only his second international tournament, the Sonipat-born was also crucial in India's gold medal winning campaign at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. Abhishek was brilliant at the Paris Olympics last year where India won bronze following it up with a gold at the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy.

Last month, Abhishek was immaculate again as he was named the Player of the Tournament at the Asia Cup, helping India win gold and qualify for the 2026 World Cup.