Waveriders will be aggressive: Gurwinder Chandi

Strengthening the forward line for defending champions Delhi Waveriders in the Hero Hockey India League (HIL), seasoned striker Gurwinder Singh Chandi is all set to add dynamism and vigour to the team in the league's third edition that starts Jan 22.

The 25-year-old forward has played a key role in the remarkable performance of the Waveriders in the past -- Chandi has a creditable record of more than 100 outings for the national squad. He is ready to further shore up the Waveriders' attack in the upcoming tournament and help them retain the title.

"I have been working on my game for long and hard and will be using it to my team's benefit in the approaching league," Chandi said Wednesday.

"Under the captaincy of Sardar Singh, I, along with Akashdeep, Danish Mujtaba and Yuvraj Walmiki, will be looking forward to playing an attacking game and creating maximum scoring opportunities for our side."

He was one of the leading scorers in the inaugural edition, firing a total of five field goals for Waveriders, helping his side earn a respectable second place in the league.

In the same season, Chandi was named the 'Man of the Match' in the game where Delhi Waveriders defeated the Mumbai Magicians 6-4. His name also featured thrice for the 'Goal of the Match' award in 2013.

Chandi also said that New Zealander Simon Child and Australian Jason Wilson have also helped him a lot in the previous editions.

"I have picked up many tips from both Simon and Jason and am waiting to play again alongside them this season. The main motive is nonetheless to play the best and retain our title."

The third edition of the league will start Jan 22 with Kalinga Lancers taking on Ranchi Rays at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar in the opening match.