Australia Salutes Indian Hockey Legend Manpreet Singh with Guard of Honour and Special Tribute on 400th International Match

In a memorable display of respect and sportsmanship, the Australian men’s hockey team paid a heartfelt tribute to Indian hockey star Manpreet Singh as he marked his 400th international appearance. The gesture occurred during a recent FIH Pro League match in Antwerp, Belgium, where the Australian players formed a guard of honour for Manpreet as he exited the field, celebrating the remarkable milestone of one of India’s most accomplished athletes.

The tribute included a special presentation from Australian veteran Eddie Ockenden, himself a member of the exclusive 400-cap club. Ockenden handed Manpreet a jersey signed by the Australian team—an emotional and symbolic gift from one elite player to another. This level of recognition, especially from a rival team, underscores the high regard in which Manpreet is held across the international hockey community.

Debuting for India at just 19 years old in 2011, Manpreet Singh has since become a pillar of Indian hockey. Hailing from Mithapur in Punjab, he has played a pivotal role in India’s resurgence in the global hockey arena. Under his leadership and midfield mastery, India has earned major accolades including bronze medals at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics. His trophy cabinet also includes four Asian Champions Trophy titles (2013, 2018, 2023, and 2024), two Asian Games gold medals (2014, 2023), and silver medals in two Commonwealth Games (2014, 2022).

Individually, Manpreet has received numerous honours such as the Arjuna Award in 2018, the FIH Men’s Player of the Year in 2019, and India’s highest sporting accolade—the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021. Even after 400 matches, Manpreet stated that the excitement and commitment he felt during his debut still fuel his game today.

Although India narrowly lost 2-3 to Australia in the match, the spotlight was clearly on Manpreet’s historic achievement. The gesture from the Australian team, echoed by fans and hockey officials, served as a powerful reminder that true sportsmanship lies in honouring excellence—regardless of team colours.