Biography
Desh Raj
Sharma
A Distinguished Indian Volleyball Player
About The Player
An Integral Part of Himachal Volleyball
Desh Raj began representing Delhi in 1954–55 before playing for Punjab in seven National Championships from 1958–59 to 1964–65. His international career included India’s tour of Ceylon in 1959 and test matches against the visiting Russian team in 1960.
His biggest achievement came at the 1962 Jakarta Asian Games, where he was part of India’s silver-medal-winning men’s volleyball team.
SPORTING CHARACTERISTICS
His Role and Strengths on the Court
The Setter
A setter organizes attacking play by delivering the ball to teammates and creating scoring opportunities.
Team Leadership
Desh Raj represented and captained the Punjab and Himachal Pradesh volleyball teams.
Discipline and Dedication
He balanced competitive volleyball with a long career in police service.
BEYOND THE COURT
A Life of Public Service and Family Tradition
Alongside volleyball, Desh Raj built a long career in the police force, handling security-related responsibilities and other official duties. He received specialist training in guerrilla warfare and VIP security and was promoted to Additional Superintendent of Police in 1991 before retiring from Himachal Pradesh Police.
Volleyball was also part of his family tradition. His five brothers, Dalip Chand, Kalyan Chand, Hem Raj, Ishwar Sharma, and Vijay Sharma, played the sport. Dalip Chand, Kalyan Chand, and Hem Raj also participated in National Championships, reflecting the family’s strong connection with volleyball.
Key Highlights
Asian Games, 1962
Silver medal with the Indian men's volleyball team
International Representation
Tours and matches involving Ceylon and Russia
State-Level Volleyball
Represented Punjab and Himachal Pradesh
Represented Punjab and Himachal Pradesh
Competed for Punjab in several national championships
Asian Games, 1962
Silver medal with the Indian men's volleyball team
International Representation
Tours and matches involving Ceylon and Russia
State-Level Volleyball
Represented Punjab and Himachal Pradesh
National Championships
Competed for Punjab in several national championships
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