Affan Yousuf
Affan Yousuf found the net just once during the fourth edition of the HIL, but he was one of the most attacking young players during the entire league. Time and again, he wreaked havoc on the opposition goalkeeper and forced him into numerous saves.
Affan’s prowess at just the age of 21 is not surprising as hockey runs in his blood. The Bhopal boy is the son of former India international Mohammed Yousuf and is thus endowed with a potent attacking game. His hunger and capability to accelerate when the time is right, makes him such an integral part of the forward line.
Affan has also gained in a lot of valuable experience over the last couple of years. After being a part of the winning Indian team at the 2013 Sultan of Johor Cup, Affan made his international debut at the 2014 Hockey World League Final Round at home.
At the HIL auctions in September, Dabang Mumbai had bought him for US $53,000 and he repaid the faith with a wonderful goal against the Uttar Pradesh Wizards in the dying minutes of the game. Affan scooped up two ‘Emerging Player of Match’ awards this HIL and will certainly be one of the stars to look out for in the future.
