India captain Sardar completes 200 international caps

Indian men's hockey captain Sardar Singh completed 200 international matches when he took to the field in the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Perth Hockey Stadium here Sunday.

Sardar, who made his debut in 2006 against Pakistan, has helped his team bring many laurels for the country.

Congratulating Sardar, Hockey India (HI) secretary general Md. Mushtaque Ahmad said: "HI is extremely delighted for Sardar's achievement of 200 international matches. Since his debut, he has been an integral part of Indian team and always gives his best in matches at all levels. His journey from a keen learner to an inspirational skipper has seen many successes where he has played a vital role for the team."

"As a senior player and captain, he is a mentor to whom young players would like to look up to and follow. HI takes utmost pride in congratulating Sardar on his accomplishment. We wish him all the best for the upcoming tournaments and hope to see him bringing more achievements for India."

Playing in the midfield, Sardar is known as one of the best players in the world. Hailing from Haryana, Sardar is the youngest player to captain India when he led the side at the 2008 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

The playmaker was awarded Player of the Tournament in the 2012 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, 2012 Olympic Qualifiers and 2010 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. In 2010, Sardar was included in the 18-men FIH All-Star Team and won the Asian Men's Player of the Year 2012.

He was also signed by Dutch club HC Bloemendaal to play in the Euro Hockey League in 2013 and captains Delhi Waveriders in the Hockey India League (HIL).