New Zealand's Kane Russell is all set for the reinvigorated Hockey India League (HIL), which will be returning after a 7-year hiatus in December 2024. A legend of the sport with more than 250 appearances for the Blacksticks, Russell was never picked by a side in the first iteration of the HIL between 2013 and 2017. But now, the 32-year-old is all set to make his debut after being picked by the UP Rudras during the auction in October.
One of the strongest drag-flickers in the sport, Russell will be captained by Hardik Singh in the HIL this season. Speaking to Indiatoday.in exclusively, the Blacksticks star would open up about the similarities he has seen between Hardik and the great Sardar Singh. Russell also considers Hardik to be a contender to become India captain in the near future.
Russell also opened up about the UP Rudras squad, the style of play fans can expect from the team under Paul van Ass and the race to be the top goalscorer in the HIL this season.
Kane Russell interaction
India Today :
First question is about the UP Rudra squad. All the teams did great work during the auction and built strong squads. What do you think sets UP Rudra apart from the rest?
Russell:
It’s tough to pinpoint a standout team since every team has the same budget, so they should all be on a similar level. However, I believe our team has a lot of depth. The starting XI will be very strong, and our substitutes are equally impressive. We also have some excellent junior players who’ve performed well recently. From what I’ve heard, they’re very promising talents.
India Today :
This is your first season in the Hockey India League. There was a previous version of the league, and you’ve also played in European Leagues. How do you think this experience will impact the sport, and how do you feel about playing in this league? Are you excited, and did you get a chance to follow the earlier version?
Russell :
I had put my name down in the past but didn’t get picked. I followed the league closely and enjoyed seeing New Zealand players excel. It was televised in New Zealand, so it was easy to watch. Playing in Europe has been great, but India offers a completely different experience. For the first time, I’ll play alongside Indian players, learn about their culture, and train with some of the best in the world. I’m very excited and believe this league has immense potential for hockey’s future. Young players in New Zealand will be watching and hoping to play in it someday.
India Today :
UP Rudras recently announced Hardik Singh as the captain for this season. Many compare him to the great Sardar Singh, especially as a midfield general. Having played against Sardar Singh in your career and Hardik as well, do you see similarities in their playing styles?
Russell :
Definitely. Sardar was an incredible player, and I see a lot of similarities between him and Hardik. They’re both complete players—excellent on the ball, with great passing skills, the ability to throw high balls, and eliminate opponents. They’re the kind of players you trust with the ball but also ones who can change the game with their skills. I think Hardik being named captain is well deserved.
India Today :
Now that Hardik Singh is captain of UP Rudras and also vice-captain of the Indian national team, do you think he could follow in Sardar Singh’s footsteps and become India’s captain in the future?
Russell :
Absolutely. He’s talented enough and seems to have the personality to take on the role. I’m unsure about Harmanpreet’s future timeline, but Hardik is definitely a strong contender for the captaincy in the coming years. Read More
This article is referenced from
https://www.indiatoday.in/
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