New Zealand midfielder Sarpreet Singh hopes his appearance at the World Cup can pave the way for other players of South Asian heritage to reach the game's biggest stage.

Sarpreet Singh makes history as the first Indian-origin player to start a FIFA World Cup match, honouring his Punjabi roots while starring for New Zealand.

The 27-year-old became the first Sikh to play at a World Cup when he took the field in New Zealand’s 2-2 draw with Iran in Los Angeles in their opener.

New Zealand midfielder Sarpreet Singh hopes his appearance at the World Cup can pave the way for other players of South Asian heritage to reach the game's biggest stage.