Waiting for the next Thoiba

In a game dominated by the North, Thoiba Singh is a rarity. The 80s saw the Manipuri left-winger stand out on field, not just because of his...

In a game dominated by the North, Thoiba Singh is a rarity. The 80s saw the Manipuri left-winger stand out on field, not just because of his looks but those speedy runs down the flank and his stamina. Spotting Thoiba on the sideslines of PHL — he coaches the Imphal Rangers — one contemplates what Indian hockey is missing: Thoiba’s speed, stamina and, in general, players from the northeast.

While the northeast influence saw Indian football change gears, hockey still awaits the arrival of the next Thoiba. Though Imphal Rangers play in Tier-II but their performance will be keenly followed considering the potential there. Thoiba points out that things are in place for the game to develop in Manipur. ‘‘Hockey is the second most popular sport in the state after football. There is also a SAI Centre with an astro-turn in Imphal for budding players,’’ he says.

So why isn’t Manipur a force in Indian hockey yet? ‘‘There have always been promising junior in the state but they move out to various companies and institutions,’’ he adds. In the PHL so far, the Imphal side has impressed with their pacey play but is yet to record a win. Thoiba isn’t too worried and takes this as a learning excercise for his young side.

Story continues below this ad

‘‘We have a young team with only Shanta Singh and Brojen Singh being experienced. But I am satisfied with their performance,’’ he says.

	FACTFILE

			• Asia Cup 1985, 1989 • Champions Trophy 1985, 1989 • Azlan Shah Trophy 1985 • Asian Games 1986, 1990 • World Cup 1986 • Olympics 1988 • Indo-Pak Test Series 1986 • Indira Gandhi tournament 1987 • Five-nation 1988

According to Thoiba, speed is very vital in modern hockey but sadly the present national squad is found wanting in this department. ‘‘During my playing days, despite the off-side rule, there were so many counter-attacks.

Today the team lacks pace and this means few counter-attacks and subsequently less goals,’’ he says.

And, maybe, that is where Thoiba comes in the picture and the crash course in speed he is giving to his wards in Imphal Rangers.

Railway authorities promptly took action, shifting passengers to other coaches and quickly extinguishing the fire.

Fire noticed in coach of Amritsar–Saharsa Garib Rath Express, no casualties reported

India23 min ago

A fire broke out in a coach of Amritsar–Saharsa Garib Rath Express at Sirhind Station in Punjab, but no casualties were reported. Railway officials quickly took action, shifting passengers to other coaches and extinguishing the fire. The train will depart to its destination shortly. The incident occurred at 07:30 hrs and is currently being investigated.

View all shorts

Live Blog

PHOTOS