Paris-bound squad better prepared than Tokyo Olympics bronze-medal winning team: Sreejesh

Kochi: Two Asian Games gold medals, two Commonwealth Games gold medals, and four Asian Champions Trophy golds are among the 100-odd medals and awards that adorn the trophy cabinet at PR Sreejesh’s home in Pallikara. However, it’s not the gold medals that glitter most among his achievements, but the bronze medal he won in the Tokyo Olympics three years ago that outshines every other laurel he has bagged in his storied 18-year international career.
The 36-year-old is all set to become the first Indian custodian and only the second Keralite after Shiny Wilson to participate in four Olympics as he embarks on a journey to Paris in over a week’s time.The Khel Ratna recipient is keen to better the result of Tokyo but admits that it is not an easy task. “India are definite medal contenders. We can beat any team in the world right now. However, the gap between the top six teams is narrow. So, it is the performance on the day that counts. If we play to the best of our ability consistently, we can certainly bring home a bigger medal than the one we won in Tokyo,” Sreejesh told TOI.
The two-time winner of FIH’s Best Goalkeeper award also reckons that the Indian squad headed for Paris is much better prepared than the one that went to Tokyo. “Covid had disrupted our preparations for the last Olympics, and we had played very few matches in the lead-up to Tokyo. But this time, we have played 16 matches in the Pro League itself, besides the tour to Australia. We have five players who are going to play in their first Olympics. But even they know how the top teams’ approach as they have played them in the Pro League. That experience is going to be crucial in the Olympics,” added Sreejesh.
Having played under more than a dozen coaches, Sreejesh is all praise for the current India coach, Craig Fulton. “He was a former player. So, he understands a player’s psyche. Moreover, he has worked with teams like Belgium, and that knowledge will help us in the Olympics. He gives players the freedom to express themselves on the field, and it helps the players to bring out their best.”
Having reinvented himself as a goalkeeper midway through his career, Sreejesh says his endeavour has been to be the best at his trade. “I am very experienced now and more confident of my abilities. Goalkeepers mature with age. So, I feel I am a better goalkeeper than I was three years ago.”
Being the seniormost member of the contingent, Sreejesh’s role is now not limited to goalkeeping duties alone. “On the field, I am more like a coach when I am not defending an opposition attack. I try to encourage players, exhort them, and shout instructions. I also scream when they commit mistakes. Off the field, I am more like a mentor. I share my experience with my fellow players,” the veteran gives an insight into his responsibilities in the Indian team.