Tokyo bronze medalists Rupinder Pal Singh and Birendra Lakra retire from international hockey

Star India defender and drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh has announced retirement from international hockey with immediate effect, according to a report in PTI. The Tokyo bronze-medalist made the announcement and said, "I would like to inform you about my decision to retire from Indian hockey team. The past couple of months have undoubtedly been the best days of my life. Standing on the podium in Tokyo along with my teammates with whom I have shared some of the most incredible experiences of my life was a feeling I will cherish forever." 

Hi everyone, wanted to share an important announcement with you all. pic.twitter.com/CwLFQ0ZVvj

"I believe it is time for me to make way for young and talented players to experience every great joy I have felt in these last 13 years of representing India." The 30-year-old went on to play for India in 223 matches and is widely regarded as one of the finest drag-flickers in the world.

Not only him, defender Birendra Lakra too has announced his retirement. It is learnt that the duo made the decision after they were informed that they won't be in the scheme of things from now on, and won't be a part of the National camp starting in Bengaluru from next week. 

Lakra was the also the vice-captain of the side that won the bronze medal in Tokyo.