Kakamigahara, 28 September (H.S.): Indian men’s hockey team goalkeeper Suraj Karkera reached a significant milestone in his career by completing 100 senior international appearances. He achieved the feat on Monday during India’s fifth Pool A match against Bangladesh at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 in Japan.

The 30-year-old Suraj made his senior international debut in 2017 and has since become an integral part of India’s goalkeeping unit. He has represented the country at several major international and continental competitions.

Among Suraj’s major achievements is the gold medal he won at the 2017 Asia Cup. He subsequently helped India secure a bronze medal at the 2021 Asian Champions Trophy. He was also part of the Indian team that won bronze at the 2022 Asia Cup. In 2023, he contributed to India’s gold-medal campaign at the Hockey5s Asia Cup.

Suraj added another major achievement to his career as part of India’s gold-medal-winning squad at the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy. He subsequently played a role in India’s gold-medal-winning campaign at the 2025 Asia Cup as well.

Completing 100 international appearances during India’s title-defence campaign at the Asian Games marks a special milestone in Suraj’s career. The achievement reflects his long-standing contribution to Indian hockey, as well as his consistency and commitment to the national team.

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey congratulated Suraj on the milestone, saying, “Heartiest congratulations to Suraj on achieving the remarkable milestone of completing 100 senior international appearances for India. As a goalkeeper, Suraj has displayed tremendous composure and commitment whenever the team has needed him. I am confident that he will continue to make valuable contributions to the team.”

Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh also praised Suraj for his achievement. He said, “Completing 100 appearances for India’s senior team is a proud moment for Suraj and for Indian hockey. This achievement reflects the hard work, discipline and perseverance he has demonstrated throughout his career. Suraj has continued to develop as a goalkeeper and has played an important role in the team’s journey.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar