#4 Harmanpreet Singh – Fullback
Unlike his fellow 21-year-old Mandeep who had earned his first international cap as early as 2013, Harmanpreet Singh had to toil for months before the selectors could be convinced of his senior-team readiness. But when he did receive the call-up before the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2016, he grabbed the opportunity with both hands and has been unstoppable since.
The able fullback who doubles up as a handy drag-flicker within India’s ranks found the net in the very first match against the Germans. Known for having the calmest of heads on his shoulders, Harmanpreet was then entrusted with India’s penalty stroke against Great Britain which he slotted home with ease to ensure the first victory fo the Blueshirts in London.
His all-round performance throughout the Champions Trophy 2016 fetched him, quite deservingly, the Best Junior Player Of The Tournament award. What we’re eager to see now is for young Harmanpreet to continue his brilliant form deep into the month of August when India’s Olympic campaign flags off at Rio.
