With India’s last World Cup medal coming in 1975 (yes, 51 years ago), the 26-year-old midfielder is leaning on legendary mentor Ashok Kumar’s wisdom: “Create goals, don’t just score them.” That’s the mindset shifting Indian hockey from nostalgia to ambition. Vivek, who’s scored 22 goals in 194 matches, now focuses on being the architect; anticipating play, reading opponents, and building attacks. He’s not just chasing a medal; he’s building a legacy. And with fitness benchmarks smashed (entire team cleared Yo-Yo test at 21+) and no fear of back-to-back tournaments (World Cup + Asiad), this team’s not here to participate; they’re here to rewrite the record books. The drought ends now.