What Makes the India–Pakistan Hockey Rivalry So Special? Olympian Gurbux Explains

Gurbux Singh, an Indian hockey icon, has dedicated nearly seven decades to the sport, leaving an indelible mark as a player and mentor. Beginning his career in 1955 at his university in Gwalior under the tutelage of Olympic legend Roop Singh, Singh quickly rose through the ranks, representing Madhya Bharat in 1956 and making his international debut for India in 1959. His crowning achievement came at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where he helped secure a gold medal, reclaiming the world title for India in an era when Olympic champions were recognised as world champions. Reflecting on his journey, Singh told reporters, "It’s been almost 65 years with hockey, and I’ve lived my best life because of it. The 1964 Olympic gold and the 1966 Asian Games gold, where we beat Pakistan for the first time, will always hold a special place in my heart."

The 1964 Tokyo triumph ended Pakistan’s run of Olympic field hockey dominance, with India defeating Australia 3-1 in the final to reclaim the title last won in 1956. Singh’s role as a stalwart defender was pivotal, and the 1966 Asian Games victory in Bangkok—India’s first field hockey gold in the competition—further cemented his legacy. That win, a 1-0 upset over Pakistan, came just a year after the 1965 Indo-Pak War, adding emotional weight to the victory. "We played with the intent to win, not as if it was Pakistan. It was just another match we had to conquer," Singh recalled, emphasising the professionalism that defined his approach.

When asked about the greatest rivalry in hockey’s 100-year history, Singh instantly pointed to India versus Pakistan. "No doubt, it was the greatest rivalry of all time. Before partition, we played as one unit, but after, no European team matched the intensity we shared with Pakistan. Matches were fiercely fought," he said. Despite the on-field ferocity, Singh stressed the absence of off-field animosity, noting that 13 of Pakistan’s 18 players in 1966 were Punjabis affected by the 1947 partition. "We respected them as opponents, but there was camaraderie once the whistle blew," he added, recalling friendships forged during tours.

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Singh’s reflections come as India’s hockey community celebrates its storied past while eyeing future success. With India securing bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the sport enjoys renewed interest, though challenges like infrastructure and funding persist. Singh remains optimistic, urging young players to draw inspiration from the sport’s golden era. As investigations into historical matches, including the Dharmasthala case mentioned in recent Karnataka news, highlight the need for transparency in sports governance, Singh’s legacy as a disciplined athlete and unifying figure endures, inspiring generations to pursue excellence on and off the field.

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