India hockey skipper Sardar Singh has signed up to play for Bloemendaal, one of the biggest clubs in Holland. The team, established in 1895, have won national title 13 times and were also the Euro Hockey League winners last year.
Said Sardar, who is currently competing in the Asia Cup in Malaysia, “The Dutch League is one of the most competitive in the world. I am looking forward to honing my skills at the club, after the Asia Cup. There is a lot to learn.”
The ace midfielder will have for company twice Olympic champion Teun de Nooijer of Holland, who is also Bloemendaal captain.
“Not only does Sardar bring a lot of experience to our squad, but he will inspire the youth of our club with his fame and charisma,” said president Henry Goeman Borgesiuslaan on the club website.
In the past, top international players like Jamie Dwyer (Australia), Christopher Zeller (Germany) and Floris Jan Bovelander (Holland) have played for Bloemendaal.
Walmiki in German league
Besides Sardar, striker Yuvraj Walmiki is another “keen to make the most of his experience with a foreign club”.
Walmiki, who was left out of the national squad, is currently playing for German club TG Frankenthal — his third stint with the team.
Said Walmiki from Germany, “I am working hard to get back into the India team. I was the highest scorer in 2011 and 2012 and it added to my confidence. It is important to learn something new and keep improving,.”