Watch: PM Modi lauds 'sarpanch' Harmanpreet for orchestrating unforgettable farewell for PR Sreejesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh for orchestrating a memorable farewell for veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. The Prime Minister's remarks came after Sreejesh announced that the Paris Olympics would be his last tournament for India. The 36-year-old legendary goalkeeper concluded his career on a high note, with India securing their second consecutive bronze medal in hockey at the Olympics.

The wall! PR Sreejesh...
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India triumphed over Spain 2-1 in the bronze medal match, marking the country's successive Olympic medals in hockey after a gap of 52 years. Reflecting on his retirement decision, Sreejesh shared that the Paris Olympics was the perfect platform to end his illustrious career. He disclosed these thoughts during a recent interaction with PM Modi, where the Prime Minister hosted the entire Indian contingent from the Paris Olympics at his residence in Delhi.

'Sarpanch sahab' did great: PM Modi

“I was thinking about it for a few years. Even my team members were asking that when will you retire (laughs). But I was thinking that I have been playing for around 20 years for my team so I will retire from a good platform. So Olympics is one such platform where entire world celebrates sports. So we thought there’s no better decision that this,” Sreejesh said.

PM Modi, while expressing his admiration, noted the significance of the farewell organized by Harmanpreet Singh and his teammates. “I must say that the team will miss you for sure. However, the way the team gave you farewell. I appreciate them, Sarpanch sahab (Harmanpreet Singh) did great,” remarked PM Modi.

PR Sreejesh's remarkable journey in Indian hockey

PR Sreejesh's retirement from Indian hockey marks the end of an extraordinary 18-year career. His final appearance at the Paris Olympics, where he wore the iconic jersey number 16, concluded with honors as teammates celebrated his contribution by donning his jersey during a ceremony in New Delhi. Sreejesh was instrumental in securing bronze medals for India at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, earning him a place among the world's top goalkeepers.

His influence extended beyond the field, as Sreejesh was a calming presence and mentor to younger players. Looking forward, he plans to contribute to the sport by transitioning into a coaching role with the junior hockey team, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire the next generation of Indian hockey players.

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The story behind 'Sarpanch' Harmanpreet Singh

PM Modi’s reference to Harmanpreet Singh as "Sarpanch Sahib" caught attention, a nickname that has become synonymous with the Indian hockey captain. The term was popularized by commentator Sunil Taneja, who initially used it during his IPL commentary to describe captains as "Sarpanch." This moniker for Harmanpreet gained traction and became widely recognized across both hockey and cricket commentary, demonstrating Taneja’s influence in shaping the sports narrative.

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