Hockey India congratulated Krishnan B. Pathak, the Indian men’s hockey team’s goalkeeper, on completing 150 international matches. This achievement was marked during the India versus Japan match at the Hero Men’s Asia Cup Rajgir 2025, hosted at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar. Pathak hails from Kapurthala, Punjab.
India began its campaign with a thrilling 4-3 victory against China, marked by a hat-trick from captain Harmanpreet Singh and a goal from Jugraj Singh. The team is seeking to maintain its momentum following this win.
Dr. Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, extended his congratulations, highlighting Pathak’s stature in Indian hockey over recent years. He noted the demanding nature of the goalkeeping role and Pathak’s consistently high-level performances on significant occasions. Tirkey also emphasized Pathak’s inspiring journey from the 2016 Junior World Cup to becoming India’s first-choice goalkeeper. Hockey India wished him well on this achievement and for his future.
Bhola Nath Singh, Hockey India’s Secretary General, shared the organization’s pride in Pathak’s accomplishments, citing his dedication, patience, and passion for the sport. He pointed out that Pathak’s contributions have been instrumental in India’s successes, and that he serves as a model for up-and-coming players. Singh views this milestone as a testament to Pathak’s contributions to Indian hockey.
Pathak reflected on the milestone, describing it as a special moment for himself and his family. Representing India 150 times was a dream, especially given his hockey beginnings in Kapurthala. Every match is a source of pride, with this milestone carrying extra significance during the current tournament. Pathak expressed his gratitude to his coaches, teammates, and Hockey India. He is focused on contributing to team success and inspiring future Indian goalkeepers.
Pathak is renowned for his quick reflexes and consistency in goal. He first gained prominence in 2016, as a member of the gold-winning Indian junior team at the FIH Junior World Cup in Lucknow. He made his senior team debut in January 2018 against Japan and quickly secured his place. He has since participated in key victories, including the 2018 Asian Champions Trophy, the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games gold, and consecutive Asian Champions Trophy titles in 2023 and 2024.
During the FIH Men’s Hockey Pro League seasons from 2020/21 and 2021/22, Pathak was a vital defensive presence, with his saves leading India to podium finishes. He also competed in the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, where India won a silver medal, and the FIH Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup 2023. Since PR Sreejesh’s retirement after the Paris 2024 Olympics, Pathak has become India’s dependable first-choice goalkeeper.
