Sandeep Singh: The Flicker Singh of Indian Hockey

Sandeep Singh, often called “Flicker Singh,” is one of India’s most celebrated hockey players. Known for his exceptional drag-flicking skills, Singh has been instrumental in reviving Indian hockey and inspiring young players. This article delves into his journey, achievements, and legacy, making him an icon in Indian sports. Sandeep Singh (born 27 February 1986) is an Indian professional field hockey player from Haryana and an ex-captain of the Indian national hockey team. He generally features as a full back and is a penalty corner specialist for the team. He has been dubbed “Flicker Singh” in the media for his specialization of the drag-flick, one of the fastest in the world.

Singh holds a DSP rank in the Haryana Police. He has been elected as MLA in 2019 from Pehowa constituency in Kurukshetra, Haryana from Bharatiya Janata Party. He served as the Sports Minister of Haryana and resigned from the post on 1 January 2023, after the Haryana police registered a case against him for a sexual assault complaint.

Early Life

Born in Shahabad, Haryana, Sandeep Singh grew up with a passion for hockey. His elder brother, Bikramjeet Singh, also a hockey player, inspired him to pursue the sport professionally. Sandeep trained rigorously, honing his skills under the guidance of top coaches, and soon became a standout player in his early years. Singh hails from Shahabad town in Kurukshetra, Haryana. He was educated at Shivalik Public School, Mohali. Sandeep was born to Gurucharan Singh Saini and Daljeet Kaur Saini. Sandeep has an older brother, Bikramjeet, also a field hockey player who plays for Indian Oil.

Rise to Stardom

Sandeep Singh made his debut for the Indian hockey team in 2004 at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia. His drag-flicks, characterized by power and precision, quickly earned him a reputation as one of the best in the world. By 2008, he was appointed the captain of the Indian hockey team, showcasing his leadership qualities on the field.

Under his captaincy, India won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in 2009, a feat achieved after a 13-year gap. Sandeep’s performance was a key factor in this victory, as he emerged as the tournament’s highest scorer.

Career

International hockey

Sandeep’s international debut was in January 2004 in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Kuala Lumpur. He took over as the captain of the Indian national team in January 2009, and Rajpal Singh succeeded him later in 2010. Singh is a well known drag-flicker. At a time he was said to have the best speed in the world in drag flick (speed 145 km/h). Under his captaincy, the Indian team managed to clinch the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in 2009 after defeating Malaysia in the finals at Ipoh. India won the title after a long wait of 13 years. Singh was also the top goal scorer of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup tournament.

The India men’s national field hockey team have qualified for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London after a gap of 8 years. The team had a resounding victory over France in the finals of the Olympic qualifiers by beating France 9–1. Ace drag-flicker Singh starred in the final against France by scoring five goals – including a hat-trick – all from penalty corners (19th, 26th, 38th, 49th and 51st minutes). Singh was the highest scorer of the Olympic qualifiers tournament by scoring 16 goals.

Club career

Sandeep Singh became the fifth highest-paid marquee player at the inaugural Hockey India League as the Mumbai franchise bought him for US$64,400 with his base price being US$27,800. The Mumbai team has been named Mumbai Magicians. Scoring 11 goals in 12 games, Singh emerged as the top scorer in the first edition of the league. In 2014, he was signed by Punjab Warriors. After playing two seasons for the team, he was signed by Ranchi Rays for US$81,000 in 2015 starting 2016.

In 2014, Singh relocated to the UK to play for Havant Hockey Club.

On 22 August 2006, Singh was seriously injured after being hit by an accidental gunshot in the Kalka Shatabdi Express train, while on his way to join the national team due to leave for the World Cup in Africa two days later. He was almost paralyzed and on the wheelchair for 1 year of his life. He was 20 at that time. Singh not only recovered from that serious injury but also established himself again and played world cup for India in 2010 Indian team.

Political career

Sandeep Singh was elected from Pehowa constituency as Member of Legislative Assembly (Haryana) from Bharatiya Janata Party during the 2019 Haryana Legislative Assembly election. He was sworn in as Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs (MoS) and Minister of Printing and Stationery (MoS) (Independent Charge).

The Life-Changing Incident

Sandeep Singh’s journey was not without challenges. In 2006, a life-altering accident almost ended his career. While traveling on a train, he was accidentally shot in the lower back by a firearm. The injury left him paralyzed for nearly two years. Despite this devastating setback, Singh’s determination and hard work led to a miraculous recovery.

Career achievements

• Sandeep Singh scored the most goals and won the Man of the Tournament award in the 2009 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
• Scoring 16 goals, Singh was the leading goal scorer in the qualifying tournament for the 2012 London Olympics – scored five goals in the final.
• April 2004: Junior Asia Cup top scorer – scored 16 goals.
• 2008: Sultan Azlan Shah Cup – Sundeep was top scorer.
• 2009: Sultan Azlan Shah Cup – Sundeep was top scorer.
• 2010: Asia Games top scorer – scored 11 goals.
• 2010: World record for fastest drag flick – 145 km/h.
• 2013: Hockey India League – Top scorer – 11 goals in 12 games.
• 2014: Hockey India League – Top scorer – 11 goals.

Comeback and Achievements

Sandeep Singh returned to the sport with renewed vigor and went on to break records. Some of his most notable achievements include:

1. Highest Scorer at the 2009 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
2. Played a pivotal role in helping India qualify for the 2012 London Olympics after an 8-year hiatus.
3. Represented India in over 200 international matches and scored more than 150 goals.

Legacy and Life Beyond Hockey

Sandeep Singh retired from international hockey in 2014 but continues to inspire as a mentor and sports administrator. He ventured into politics and currently serves as a minister in the Haryana government, promoting sports and youth development.

In 2018, Bollywood honored his story through the film “Soorma,” where actor Diljit Dosanjh portrayed Sandeep Singh. The film highlighted his resilience and remarkable journey, bringing his story to a wider audience.

Awards

• 2010: Arjuna Award recipient for achievements in field hockey.
• 2012: Olympic qualifier tournament gold medal.
• 2009: Sultan Azlan Shah Cup – Best Player.

In popular culture

Indian filmmaker Shaad Ali made a biographical film, titled Soorma (lit. ’Warrior’), based on Singh’s life. Diljit Dosanjh played Sandeep Singh’s role in the film. It was released on 13 July 2018. The film also stars Taapsee Pannu and Angad Bedi.

Singh appeared as a judge on the Indian reality television series MTV Roadies (Roadies: Real Heroes) on MTV India.

Controversy

In December 2022, a junior athletics coach filed a complaint alleging that Sandeep Singh had sexually harassed her. Following this, a case was registered against Singh on 1 January 2023 for sexual harassment and criminal intimidation. The woman complained that Sandeep Singh called her to his camp office and sexually assaulted her. He denied the allegation and alleged that the complaint aims to commit personal vendetta against him. He resigned from the post of Sports Minister following the registration of case against him and handed over his portfolio to Chief Minister.

Conclusion

Sandeep Singh’s life is a testament to courage, perseverance, and determination. From overcoming a near-fatal injury to becoming a global icon in hockey, his journey inspires millions. As a drag-flick legend and a leader, he has left an indelible mark on Indian hockey.