Baljit eyes Commonwealth Games comeback

A freak eye injury might have cast a shadow over his career but a determined Indian hockey goalkeeper Baljit Singh is eyeing a comeback in the national side and hoping to play in the Commonwealth Games in October next year.

Baljit said his vision has recovered 55 per cent following treatment in the US and after another surgery he is hoping to be fit to play again by March end next year.

"My eye is better than before and I now have 55 per cent vision. I am using contact lens which was fitted in Alabama. Presently, my progress is being monitored by a local doctor in Chandigarh. I go to him for routine check up to ensure there is no infection but further treatment and a surgery is required," Baljit said.

"I am sure by March end I will make myself fit. I will do everything step by step and I am now trying to regain fitness. My target is the Commonwealth Games," he said.

Baljit damaged his right eye after a golf ball sneaked through his helmet's visor while training in the national camp in Pune in July after which he was sent to Alabama, US for treatment at the expense of the Indian government.

Baljit is hoping for more assistance from the Indian government for further treatment.

"I will have to request the Sports Minister MS Gill to extend his helping hand once again. I am trying to meet him and request him to send me back to the US for further treatment and I am confident that my request will be considered," he said.