Krishna Bahadur Pathak has taken on the challenging role of India's first-choice goalkeeper, aiming to uphold the high standards set by PR Sreejesh and fulfill his predecessor's Olympic gold medal dreams.

New Delhi: Krishna Bahadur Pathak is stepping into one of the most sought-after roles in Indian hockey: that of first-choice goalkeeper. As he prepares to fill the important shoes of veteran PR Sreejesh, who recently retired after the Paris Olympics, Pathak accepts the challenge but remains optimistic about his new position.

Pathak, 27, from Kapurthala, Punjab, has been a steady presence in Indian hockey since making his debut in 2018. With 125 matches to his name, he is no newcomer to the game. However, stepping forward as the primary goalkeeper after Sreejesh's retirement brings additional pressure and responsibility.

“It's a great feeling to be the main goalkeeper now, but it comes with an additional responsibility,” Pathak said in an interview to PTI. He reflects on the valuable lessons he has learned from Sreejesh over the past six years, emphasizing teamwork and dedication. “What I learned from Sribhai is to go with the team… it is a great feeling to replace him,” he added.

Pathak's first major challenge will be the Asian Champions Trophy, starting on September 8 in Hulunbur, China. He is aware of the high standards set by Sreejesh, who was often a game changer for India. “It will be difficult to fill his shoes as he endured a journey of 20-22 years to reach this level,” admitted Pathak. Despite the challenge, he is determined to meet the benchmarks set by his predecessors, admitting that while it may not be easy, dedication and discipline are key.

The Arjuna awardee's defining moment came when he was part of the gold-winning team at the Asian Games last year. Although he is reserved between the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, Pathak is committed to fulfilling Sreejesh's dream of winning an Olympic gold with his eyes on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “Sreebhai wanted to win an Olympic gold medal, which was unfulfilled, but he has entrusted me with the responsibility of fulfilling that dream,” said Pathak.

Reflecting on his journey, Pathak revealed that initially hockey was not his favorite sport. “No one in my family is into sports. I started with football and then my classmates introduced me to hockey,” he said. His early foray into goalkeeping was unclear, as he joined the team without prior experience with the gear of the position.

Pathak credits former Indian men's team coach and current women's national coach Harendra Singh for playing a key role in his career. Singh's support was crucial during a personal crisis when Pathak's father passed away. “Harry sir told me, 'If you want to go to Nepal and attend all the rituals, you can. Your place in the team is always safe,'” recalled Pathak.

As he prepares for his new role, Pathak remains focused on living up to the high standards set by his predecessors and contributing to India's future success in international hockey.