Harmanpreet Singh: Virat Kohli is Humble, We Spoke in Punjabi at Hockey Awards Night

India men’s hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh has shared his experience of meeting cricket star Virat Kohli, describing the interaction as memorable and highlighting the humility of the former India captain. Harmanpreet revealed that the two athletes conversed in Punjabi, adding a personal touch to their meeting, which took place recently and was later shared by the hockey player on social media.

Speaking to reporters, Harmanpreet said he felt “really great” after meeting Kohli and praised his personality and work ethic. He noted that despite being one of the most celebrated cricketers in the world, Kohli remained grounded and approachable. The hockey captain also pointed out that athletes across different sports often share a similar mindset when it comes to discipline, dedication, and striving for excellence at the highest level.

The interaction came around the time Harmanpreet was honoured at the Hockey India 8th Annual Awards 2025, where he received recognition for completing 250 international caps. Calling it a proud milestone in his career, Harmanpreet expressed gratitude for the achievement and the acknowledgment, stating that it marked a significant moment in his journey representing the country.

Also Read: IPL 2026: RCB Intra-Squad Match Sees 80 From Key Batsman

Looking ahead, Harmanpreet also spoke about India’s preparations for upcoming international tournaments, including the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. India has been placed in Pool D alongside England, Pakistan, and Wales, and is set to begin its campaign against Wales on August 15. The team will aim to build momentum and deliver consistent performances against strong opposition in the group stage.

Before the World Cup, India is scheduled to face Pakistan in a high-profile clash during the FIH Pro League in the United Kingdom around June 23, 2026. Harmanpreet described the encounter as a valuable opportunity for the team to test its strengths and address areas of improvement. He emphasised the importance of learning from previous performances and approaching upcoming matches with confidence and clarity.

The captain further stated that the team is focused on avoiding mistakes made in earlier tournaments and is working collectively to improve performance standards. With around ten weeks remaining before the Pro League fixtures, Harmanpreet expressed optimism about India’s chances and reiterated the squad’s commitment to delivering strong results on the international stage.

Also Read: Virat Kohli Dismisses Chartered Flight to London Rumours for IPL 2026