Old flavour of rivalry gone, we’ve consistently beaten Pakistan: Sardar Singh on arch-rivals’ withdrawal from Asian Champions Trophy - The Tribune

Sardar Singh: India needs greater discipline, sharper man-marking to improve internationally

Sardar, who was part of three consecutive Asian Games medal-winning teams, said India were on par with their rivals in ball possession but continued to fall short in man-to-man marking.

Pakistan's withdrawal doesn't matter, we've beaten them 15-20 times: Sardar Singh

Former India captain Sardar Singh has brushed aside Pakistan's withdrawal from the Asian Champions Trophy, saying their absence makes little difference after India's consecutive wins against them. He wants India to focus on winning the title at home.

Old flavour of rivalry gone, we’ve consistently beaten Pakistan: Sardar Singh on arch-rivals’ withdrawal from Asian Champions Trophy - The Tribune

Following Pakistan’s withdrawal from the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, former India hockey captain Sardar Singh said the old flavour of the rivalry between the two nations was no longer there, pointing to India’s consistent performances and victories against Pakistan in recent years.

India's projected path to the final at Men's Hockey Asian Champions Trophy 2026

Two-time defending champions India will be outright favourites to retain the Men's Hockey Asian Champions Trophy 2026 title, with little competition available in the absence of Pakistan.