Moritz Furste of Germany emerged the costliest HIL player this season when Kalinga Lancers bought him for a whopping $1,05,000. He has also been appointed as the skipper of the Orissa-based franchise and admitted during a tete-a-tete Saturday with Rajendra Prasad Mohapatra that he is feeling the pressure of being the highest-priced player. Excerpts…
What was your reaction when you became the costliest player of the HIL?
To tell you the truth, I haven’t thought much on this aspect. In fact you are the first one to ask me on this issue. Yes, there will definitely be the pressure to perform. But it’s not for the money aspect only. As a player, I want to do well for my new franchise and make the fans happy.
What were the reactions of other German players when you fetched the highest price in the HIL auctions?
Oh, they just said ‘congratulations’. But overall, they are very happy at my windfall.
Quite a few youngsters in your team are defenders. Your
opinions on them.
They are doing great job. It’s fun working with them and I hope they will perform well in the HIL.
Lancers haven’t done well in the last two editions. As the
skipper, any special plans?
I don’t know much about the team. I have not watched them much other than playing against them. I think it’s a totally different side now. I just want to do well with the team and inspire the others to play well also.
All teams have their strengths and weaknesses. What are your team’s strong points and
deficiencies?
I am not so sure. We have just played one practice game. We are just going to work together — as hard as possible and provide positive results to keep fans happy.
What about the atmosphere in Bhubaneswar?
Oh it’s great playing here, great stadium and surroundings conducive to good hockey. I am definitely going to have fun while playing here.
