Chandigarh: Goalkeepers, in hockey, are faceless heroes. More often than not they are remembered for the number of goals they allow.

Indian custodian Baljit Singh, however, has shot to fame with a series of brave performances in front of his home crowd. He has been the faceless hero in India's good showing so far in the Punjab Gold Cup.

"I don't play for recognition. I think most hockey players in our country feel the same. It's just the love for sport that drives us," he said.

This is Baljit's first tournament in Chandigarh and he has turned the crowd on by making some breathtaking saves.

"I feel proud to put up a good performance in front of my own people," said the local lad. "It may sound filmy but whenever the opposition attacks, I hear my family, friends and the crowd saying 'don't let them score, stop it.' That's what motivates me," he added. Baljit, who started his career as a right winger, was advised by his coach Jasbir Singh to take up the role of defending his team's citadel.

"I found goalkeeping quite interesting. One not only needs to have quick reflexes but there has to be a good sense of positioning and the courage to take on the opposition strikers," he said. "Now, during training sessions, I practice with the golf balls. It's tough," he added.

As is the case with most players in the Indian team, the road thus far hasn't been easy for Baljit. The 27-year-old had to wait for quite some time before being picked for the playing XI.

"Everyone has to wait for his turn. When I was the second choice 'keeper, Adrian (D'Souza) was doing quite well. But I was given a chance to prove myself and thankfully, I didn't do too badly," he said.