Sharmila Devi Reflects On Challenging Times Away from Indian Women's Hockey Team: 'I Stayed Strong Mentally'

Young forward Sharmila Devi feels the desire to become a better version of herself helped her make a comeback to the Indian women's hockey team and she would continue to work hard on her game to remain consistent. (More Hockey News)

The 22-year-old from Haryana returned to the Indian team in February this year after close to nine months during the FIH Hockey Pro League game against China.

"It wasn't easy. I didn’t get to play for the national side for close to nine months," Sharmila was quoted as saying in a Hockey India (HI) release.

"After the test series against Australia (May, 2023), I got to play for the team in the FIH Hockey Pro League in February 2024, missing out on the Asian Games and Olympic Qualifiers. Those were trying times but I stayed strong mentally and patiently waited for my chance while training hard.

"I worked on my game day in and day out. I wanted to become the best player I could be. I was very clear that that was the only way back and that I had to give it my all. While working on my skills as a forward, I also worked on the defensive aspects of the game."

When India took on China in their first game of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023-24, Sharmila finally got her chance to take the field.

"I was more than excited to be wearing the Indian jersey once again. It felt very rewarding for all the work that was put in. I would have been happier if we had won that game but it was unfortunately not meant to be," she said.

Sharmila vowed to continue to put in her best efforts to get better at the game.

"Every time we step onto the field, we give our hundred percent. This is something I have always done and will continue to do so. I will work hard to consistently do well for the national team and help us win more and more games as time goes by."