VOI World/ Desk
A footballer’s journey from New Zealand to the world’s biggest sporting stage is bringing pride to a village in Punjab after Sarpreet Singh earned a place in New Zealand’s squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The selection of the 27-year-old midfielder has sparked celebrations in Dhada Khurd village in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district, the maternal home of Singh’s family. Though born and raised in New Zealand, Singh’s connection to Punjab remains strong through his parents, who migrated overseas nearly 35 years ago while maintaining close ties with their native villages.
The Punjab roots shine as Sarpreet Singh reaches FIFA World Cup story has resonated deeply in Mahilpur, a region often referred to as the cradle of football in Punjab. Following confirmation of his World Cup selection, Singh’s mother, Sarabjit Kaur, arranged for prayers at the village gurdwara and sent sports kits for around 40 young footballers training at a local sporting club, hoping to inspire the next generation of players.
According to family members, Singh began playing football when he was just two-and-a-half years old and developed his skills through local clubs in New Zealand. His dedication eventually earned him a place in the national team setup and now a coveted spot at the FIFA World Cup.
Singh is among a small number of footballers of Indian heritage to represent their country at the FIFA World Cup. His achievement has become a source of pride not only for his family but also for football enthusiasts across Punjab, where the sport enjoys a rich tradition and strong grassroots following.
As New Zealand prepares for its World Cup campaign, residents of Dhada Khurd and Mahilpur will be watching closely. For many aspiring footballers in the region, Singh’s rise serves as a reminder that local roots can lead to global success.
