Stage becomes much bigger when you compete at Asian Games: Sandesh Jhingan

India’s veteran defender Sandesh Jhingan reckons the stage becomes much bigger when they compete at the upcoming Asian Games. After a bit of controversy, the ministry gave a green chit to the Indian team to take part in the forthcoming games.

India has been in solid form after winning the Tri-nation tournament, Hero Intercontinental Cup, and the SAFF Championship. India must have gained confidence by beating teams like Lebanon and Kuwait in the SAFF Championship.

Jhingan played three matches in the SAFF championship and played a key role in the defense of the team. In fact, Jhingan scored from the spot in the penalty shootout in India’s 5-4 win against Kuwait in the final of the tournament.

“I’m really happy and felt proud and happy to see the whole country coming together for football, without something. (It was) really appealing to me or gave me a lot of pride and happiness,” Jhingan said in an interaction with RevSportz.

The 30-year-old from Chandigarh gave credit to India’s head coach Igor Stimac and all the people who made efforts to help the team in taking part in the Asian Games.

“The gaffer, influencers, and YouTubers made their efforts to make this happen, as well as Kalyan Sir, Shaji Sir, and everyone. So it was really good to see how everyone came together,” he said.

“But this is just the first step, and now we have our work ahead of us. I’m pretty confident, as I have always been, in our team throughout all the stages, both boys and girls, men and women. So yeah, I’m just looking forward to the tournament now, to be honest,” Jhingan added.

The defender added it is always a proud feeling to don the Indian jersey and all the players always look to win irrespective of the stage.

“Not just for the Asian Games, but since you mentioned the blue jersey, I feel it’s the greatest honour for me as a footballer, regardless of whether it’s the Asian Games or a friendly match. Every time (I step) onto the pitch, everyone around me shares the same thought – which is to win,” he said.

“Even if it takes your blood or you’re going to take many broken bones, it doesn’t matter; you have to get the win and make your country proud. When you compete in prestigious tournaments like the Asian Games, the stage becomes much bigger, and having the opportunity to shine brightly is beautiful for anyone,” the defender further stated.

The Blue Tigers has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts People’s Republic of China, Bangladesh, and Myanmar for the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou.