Going to be hard to fill Sreejesh's shoes at Asian Champions Trophy: Karkera

New Delhi:India goalkeeper Suraj Karkera on Saturday said that it will be hard to fill veteran PR Sreejesh's shoes at the Hockey Men's Asian Champions Trophy 2021, starting December 14 in Dhaka.

Sreejesh, who was a key player in India's historic bronze medal performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, has been rested from the upcoming tournament.

"PR Sreejesh has done so much for India for so many years. It is always going to be hard to fill his shoes. But I will try to give my 100 percent whenever I get an opportunity," Suraj said.

"We have been learning from him for so long. He shares his knowledge with all of us during goalpost training and gives us a lot of tips. So, I have a big responsibility."

Suraj, who represented India at the Tokyo Olympics, is going to return to the field after over two years.

"I am really excited to get a chance to play for India after a long time. Anytime you get a chance to don the Indian jersey, you feel the goosebumps. I am not nervous at all as we have trained well. I feel confident about myself and my abilities," he said.

Apart from the vice-captain Harmanpreet Singh and experienced player Varun Kumar, India have included youngsters like Jarmanpreet Singh, Dipsan Tirkey, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, and Mandeep Mor. The team has given them an opportunity to showcase their abilities.

Moreover, Suraj expressed confidence in India's defensive troops.

"Everyone in the defense knows their duties and roles they have to play. Goalkeeping is my duty and my zone. So, of course, it is important on my part to keep communicating with the defense line," he said.

The Asian Champions Trophy will be India's first competition since finishing third at the Tokyo Olympics.

When asked about India's prospects in the tournament, Suraj said that the team will take the upcoming event match by match.

"We aim to win the trophy. We will take it match by match, irrespective of which team we are facing. We will try not to think about results and keep a clear mind. We are going to play a tournament after a long time. So, of course, players are fresh and excited to perform," he signed off.

The three-time champions India will open their campaign against Korea on December 14.(UNI)