New Delhi, Jan 10 (IANS): Seasoned midfielder Gurbaj Singh aims to replicate his performance that had helped Delhi Waveriders emerge the 2014 Hockey India League (HIL) champions.

Playing for the Delhi franchise for the third straight time, the 26-year-old looks all set to give his best in the upcoming season which starts Jan 22.

"The league is going to be very challenging as all the teams are equipped with the best players from around the world. With players like Sardar Singh, Akashdeep Singh and Tim Drummond in our team, I endeavour to retain the title this year too," he said in a release Saturday.

"I am aiming to encounter a tough fight in this season. The team is fully prepared to face the challenge without building up any pressure," he said.

"Playing for the Delhi-based franchisee is surely one of the best opportunities as we get to learn a lot and that is what holds significance for us."

In the inaugural session of the HIL, Gurbaj was the Man-of-the-Match in Waveriders' 5-2 win against the now defunct Ranchi Rhinos and was twice adjudged the man of the match in the second edition of the tournament where he displayed clinical defensive skills.

Under the proficient captaincy of Sardar Singh, the 186-capped international excelled as a midfielder. He is looking forward to rub shoulders with Sardar again and grab his share of scoring opportunities.

With a promise to play high quality hockey in the upcoming league, Gurbaj appears confident of restricting the opponents' scoring chances.

The opening match of the third edition of the league will see Kalinga Lancers taking on Ranchi Rays at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.