German hockey star Gonzalo Peillat has hailed India’s Harmanpreet Singh as the best drag-flicker in the world. The 32-year-old, who was recently signed by Hyderabad Toofans for ₹68 lakh in the Hockey India League (HIL) auction, believes Harmanpreet’s dominance in penalty corners has been instrumental in India’s recent success.
“Harmanpreet is the best drag-flicker in the world nowadays, followed by (Belgium’s) Alexander Hendrickx and (Australia’s) Jeremy Hayward,” said Peillat. “He has a really powerful drag-flick. What he has achieved in the last big tournaments is amazing. He and India know exactly what they need to do inside the circle—focus on winning more penalty corners rather than taking shots.”
Peillat, who himself is renowned as one of the world’s finest drag-flickers, explained the importance of India’s strategic approach. “If you don’t have space to shoot, just look for a corner. This is something India and Harmanpreet have perfected over the years, making every opportunity count,” he said.
Peillat, who became the most expensive overseas player in the HIL auction, expressed excitement about returning to the league after an eight-year hiatus. “I remember my first year with the Kalinga Lancers, playing alongside a young group of Indian players. Many of them are now Olympic medallists,” he said.
The German star shares a unique connection with Harmanpreet Singh. Back in 2016, when Peillat led Argentina to Olympic gold, Harmanpreet was a young talent starting his international journey. Since then, Harmanpreet has risen to prominence, recently finishing as the top scorer at the Paris Olympics with 10 goals, guiding India to a historic bronze medal.
Off the pitch, Peillat juggles multiple roles, including managing sponsorships for his German club Mannheimer HC and investing in real estate. His ₹68 lakh paycheck from the HIL auction holds special significance as he recently became a father.
“The earnings will primarily support my family, especially with a three-month-old baby at home,” Peillat said. “It’s hard to be away from them for eight weeks, especially during Christmas, but this opportunity makes it easier to justify.”
Peillat’s admiration for Harmanpreet shows the respect he has for his fellow drag-flickers and the evolution of Indian hockey. As the HIL returns, fans can look forward to witnessing these two masters of penalty corners redefine the art on opposite sides of the pitch.
