If there was one footballer in India who stood out in the international arena because of his  physical prowess and sheer courage, it was Jarnail Singh. The central defender, who largely played for Mohun Bagan in  domestic football, led India in the 1966 Asian Games and in the Merdeka Cup on more than one occasion.

But it isn't his captaincy that Jarnail Singh will be remembered for. What the Punjab born footballer did in the 1962 Asian Games to help India clinch the the Gold Medal will remain as the part of football folklore - it was a fascinating story of dedication and bravery.

Jarnail was a feared player in the Asian circuit, his massive physical power, extremely strong tackles and aggressive attitude was too hot to handle for the other nations competing against India. However, in the 1962 Asian Games, Jarnail suffered an injury in a group league match and had to sit out in the next match as he had several stitches on his forehead. Jarnail Singh was clearly a doubtful starter in the semifinal against South Vietnam, but coach SA Rahim took the gamble of not only fielding him but also played him in the most unusual position of centre forward.

Jarnail was a picture of courage against South Vietnam. While his opponents tried in vain to take advantage of his injury, Jarnail played like a true lion to score a goal in India's 3-2 victory. In the final against South Korea, Jarnail scored again, this time the second goal in the 2-1 victory. As the hundred thousand crowd at Jakarta's stadium booed the Indians mainly for political reasons, India fought grimly to bring the Gold Medal home. It was one of the best moments of Indian football and Jarnail Singh was definitely the hero.

An Arjuna Awardee, Jarnail Singh was born in the undivided Punjab on February 20, 1936 and passed away on October 13, 2000 in Vancouver, Canada, where he had gone to his daughter for a holiday.