Dilip Tirkey Retires From Hockey

The Wall of Indian Hockey has retired from the game. Yes ladies and gentlemen the magnificent, calm and artistics Dilip Tirkey has retired from the game. It is certainly a major blow for team India since Dilip had atleast 2-3 years of hockey left in him. Also looking at the performance at the recently concluded worldcup team desperately needs a experience player like him.

But due official apathy he has joined the ranks of Viren Rasquinha, Rajeev Mishra, Jugraj Singh etc whose careers have been cut short. He was one of the most under-rated player to play for team India. Coming from Orissa, he struggled throughout the life to achieve what he has reached also one of the most capped player in the world ,with great fitness and stamina. Dilip also carried the burden of young team very well when he lead the team in the absence & exodus of Dhnaraj Pillay, Balljit Dhillon, Ramandeep Singh, Sabu Varkkey and Baljit Saini.

Year 2003 was magical year of Indian Hockey when Dilip lead the team in Asia Cup Championship & Gold at Afro-Asian games.Really Indian Hockey has lost its true servant and great player.Hope he enjoys and find happiness in retired life and may get all his due recognition.Thanks Dilip for giving us the wonderful & memorable moments, your game will always delight us even after your retirement.Long Live Indian Hockey……Long Live Glory of Dilip Tirkey!!!