Days of Genius

Dhyan Chand joined the army aged 17 in 1922. In addition to practice, he had to attend to his military duties. Never once did he allow his skills to suffer.

At night, while his colleagues slept, he would practice. His hard work paid off when he was selected to play in the Inter-Provincial Championships. He games for his regiment marked him out as a player of immense class, with powerful wrists, swift execution in the 'D' and excellent physical fitness.

In 1926, Dhyan played his first match for India on the tour of New Zealand. His skills flummoxed the Kiwis. Thus began an international career that lasted 22 years.

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Dhyan Chand: A tribute