SaralnamaKurad village in Sonipat, known as the birthplace of hockey players, struggles with lack of sports facilities. Over 50 international and national players have emerged from this small village. Two-time Olympic bronze medalist Sumit Walmiki started playing on its mud fields. Despite former CM Manohar Lal's promise, the astroturf hasn't been built. Players practice on rough grounds. The village has produced 10 international and 40+ national players. In 2021, Sumit won bronze at Tokyo Olympics. He also won gold at 2023 Asian Games and bronze at 2024 Paris Olympics. In, a hockey nursery started, but astroturf work hasn't begun. Daily, 55+ children, including 10-12 girls, practice on a four-acre field prepared by the village panchayat. Players face difficulties due to lack of proper facilities. (Updated 21 Oct 2025, 04:51 IST; source: link)
Key Points
- Kurad village in Sonipat, known as the birthplace of hockey players, struggles with lack of sports facilities
- Over 50 international and national players have emerged from this small village
- Two-time Olympic bronze medalist Sumit Walmiki started playing on its mud fields