India, Feb. 4 -- Hockey has long been more than a sport for India and Malaysia. It has been a powerful cultural and sporting bridge that has connected our two nations for decades.

As a former captain of the Indian hockey team and an Olympic gold medallist, I have been privileged to experience this bond not from the stands, but from the field-through hard-fought matches, shared respect, and unforgettable sporting moments that strengthened ties between our peoples.

I had the honour of playing several Test matches against Malaysia as part of the Indian national team during an era when Asian hockey was at its most competitive and vibrant. Those encounters were always intense yet dignified, reflecting the deep respect both teams had for each...