New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS): Hockey India on Thursday congratulated the India captain Manpreet Singh on winning the FIH Player of the Year award.

In June last year, Manpreet, who completed 250 matches for India during the FIH Men's Hockey Series Finals in Bhubaneswar, led the team to victory beating South Africa in the final of the event.

He was also instrumental in India's performance at the Olympic Qualifiers in November last year where they edged out Russia to earn their ticket to the Tokyo Olympics.

In the FIH Player of the Year category, Manpreet was up against World Champions Victor Wegnez and Arthur van Doren from Belgium, FIH Pro League 2019 winners Aran Zalewski and Eddie Ockenden from Australia as well as Lucas Vila from Argentina.

"I am truly honoured to win this award and I would like to dedicate this to my team. I also thank my well wishers and hockey fans from around the world for voting in my favour. It is truly humbling to see so much support for Indian Hockey. I wish we continue to receive more such support as we gun for glory this Olympic year," stated an elated Manpreet Singh.

HI President Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad said: "I congratulate Manpreet for winning the prestigious FIH Player of the Year award. He has matured over the years as a player and has proved his importance in the team. He has led India to important victories and I hope he continues to contribute to India's success in the coming years as well."