New Delhi, March 9 -- Emerging Indian women's hockey team midfielder Baljeet Kaur has opened up about her arduous journey from a humble childhood to the national senior team, crediting her family's resilience and a shift in mindset--which she learned from international stars--as the key factors to her success.

In an exclusive conversation with ANI, Baljeet, the 24-year-old hockey player who is currently featuring in India's campaign at the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026, reflected on her early inspirations, the mental toll of being on the fringes of the national squad, and her experience in the Hockey India League (HIL).

Baljeet revealed that her love affair with hockey began not with a professional coach, but by watching her cous...