India's Harmanpreet: "Win Olympics for Sreejesh."

Whether or whether the squad wins another medal in Paris, Indian hockey will come to an end after the Games thanks to the announcement made by veteran goalie and former captain PR Sreejesh that he would be retiring. After the Indian team failed to qualify for the Olympics in 2008, Sreejesh, who made his senior debut in 2006, was one of the important players in the team that gradually improved their results, eventually winning their first Games gold since 1980 in 2021.

Several players at the 2016 Junior World Cup benefited from Sreejesh's mentoring, including men's team captain Harmanpreet Singh. Recovering from a chronic injury, Sreejesh was there in the heart of things as a player mentor during India's run for their second Junior World Cup victory. Recalling that, Harmanpreet inspired the squad in Paris to secure another Olympic medal for Sreejesh.

"Paris 2024 will undoubtedly be a unique competition. We have made the decision to honor the late PR Sreejesh with our campaign. He has served as an inspiration to all of us, and I vividly recall the Junior World Cup in 2016 when we won thanks to his mentoring. For many of us, it marked the start of our international hockey careers. We are much more motivated to take the podium once more because we want to "Win it for Sreejesh."

Paris's last dance

After 328 games for India, Sreejesh announced his retirement and thanked his family, friends, coaches, and supporters. As I approach the end of my international hockey career, my heart is filled with appreciation and introspection. I will always be appreciative of my family, teammates, coaches, and supporters for their love and support during this incredible journey "Sreejesh stated on X.