Kakamigahara, 26 September (H.S.): Indian men’s hockey team defender Sanjay reached a significant milestone in his career on Saturday, completing 100 senior international appearances during India’s fourth Pool A match against Japan at the 2026 Asian Games.

The 25-year-old Sanjay made his senior international debut in 2023. In the same year, he rose to prominence on the international stage as part of the Indian team that won the gold medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games.

Sanjay was subsequently part of the Indian team that secured a second consecutive bronze medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024. He also represented India in their title-winning campaign at the Asian Champions Trophy in 2024. In 2025, he contributed to India’s successful Asia Cup campaign.

Known for his strong presence in defence and composed style of play, Sanjay has established himself as a key member of the Indian team over the past few years. In recognition of his performances, he was also honoured with the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2024.

Completing 100 international appearances was particularly special for Sanjay as it came three years after he won the Asian Games gold medal in Hangzhou, the tournament where he achieved one of the major milestones of his international career. On the occasion, Indian team head coach Craig Fulton honoured him with a commemorative T-shirt.

Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey congratulated Sanjay on the achievement, describing the completion of 100 senior international matches as a significant milestone. He expressed hope that Sanjay would continue contributing to Indian hockey and inspire the next generation of players.

Hockey India secretary-general Bhola Nath Singh also congratulated Sanjay. He said that from becoming an Asian Games champion to winning an Olympic bronze medal, Sanjay had represented India with pride on every occasion.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar