How Goalkeeper James Mazarello Has Been A Revelation for UP Rudras
James Mazarello exudes immense promise in the Uttar Pradesh Rudras’ goalmouth. The 23-year-old Great Britain & England goalkeeper has been nothing short of a revelation in the ongoing 6th Men’s Hockey India League at Rourkela.
Mazarello, who plays club hockey for Surbiton Hockey Club, stood out with his eye-catching performances in Rudras’ two games against Vedanta Kalinga Lancers and Soorma Hockey Club. The impressive performance of the young goalkeeper did not miss the attention of the jury as he received the Player of the Match award against Vedanta Kalinga Lancers. He was at his best against Soorma Hockey Club as well – denying them scoring opportunities from as many 10 shorties – a side that has the likes of Harmanpreet Singh, Jeremy Hayward, and Nicholas Della Torre.
Read How New Zealand’s Kane Russell Has Stolen the March Over Ace Drag-Flickers
The highly talented goalkeeper, who plays second fiddle to the more experienced Ollie Payne when it comes to shouldering Great Britain & England goalkeeping duties, made his senior international debut against Spain at Valencia during the 2021-22 Pro League – a game England swamped Spain 6-1. He truly played his part in Great Britain’s second-place finish in the 2022-23 Pro League.
Read Rein Van Eijk-Coached Tamil Nadu Dragons Excited About Delivering Big Impact in HIL
Mazarello made meaningful contributions in England’s superb silver medal-winning performance at the 2023 EuroHockey Championship at Monchengladbach. The Surbiton Hockey Club player, however, did not feature in the 2024 Paris Olympics as there was a scope for one goalkeeper in the 16-member squad – Ollie Payne took on the goalkeeping duties at Paris. Mazarello was also a member of England team that bagged the bronze at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
Read Foreign Players Who Withdrew from 6th Men’s Hockey India League
Mazarello’s dazzling goalkeeping performance must be a pleasing sight for UP Rudras coach Paul Van Ass as they look to consolidate on their strong start to the 6th HIL.
Image Credit: RevSportz
