Delhi Waveriders aim to retain HIL title: Sardar Singh

Delhi Waveriders captain Sardar Singh Monday said that they are aiming to retain the Hockey India League (HIL) title they won last year.

"This is my third outing with the HIL and I am keenly waiting for it to begin. With just a few days more than a fortnight left, the preparations are in full swing. Being the defending champions, our prime aim will be to play a good game throughout and retain the title," said Sardar, who is also the skipper of the Indian team.

Marquee player Sardar Singh first led the Delhi team to the final of the first season of HIL in 2013. The team went one better the following year when they lifted the trophy by beating Punjab Warriors in the summit clash last season.

"Playing alongside the talented and experienced players from the world over has always been bliss and an opportunity of great learning," said the 28-year-old, who was named player of the tournament in the first season of HIL.

"I am delighted to have Rupinder Pal Singh, the young Akashdeep, Jason Wilson and Simon Child in the line-up and immensely depend on them to keep up the momentum of the team. Yuvraj Walmiki and Gurwinder Singh Chandi will also be the ones to watch out for," he said.

The third edition of the HIL starts Jan 22 when the Kalinga Lancers take on Ranchi Rays in Bhubaneswar.