Bengaluru, May 13 (Agency) Ace drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh has been ruled out of the hockey Asia Cup due to an injury, hockey India announced on Friday. The continental tournament is scheduled to take place in Jakarta, Indonesia from May 23. Rupinder has sustained an injury on his wrist during a training session. He will be replaced by defender Nilam Sanjeep Xess for the tournament. Defender Birendra Lakra will replace Rupinder as Captain, while forward SV Sunil will step in as the Vice-Captain of the side.
“It is unfortunate that Rupinder has picked up an injury during the training session and will not be a part of the Asia Cup. Both Birendra and Sunil are vastly experienced and have been part of the leadership group for many years now,” said Coach BJ Kariappa. “While we will miss Rupinder, we have plenty of options available in the pool. We’ve got a very talented group of players, and they are looking forward to utilizing this opportunity,” he added.