The young Indian men's hockey team produced a spirited performance to beat Japan 1-0 and clinch the bronze medal in the Asia Cup here on Wednesday. After missing out on a place in the title clash on goal difference following an exciting 4-4 draw with South Korea on Tuesday, defending champions India came out with purpose and scored a field goal through Raj Kumar Pal as early as in the seventh minute of the game and then defended in numbers to seal the deal.

India started brightly and pushed hard in the first five minutes of the match but their attacks fizzled once out inside the opposition D. The Indians, however, broke the deadlock in the seventh minute from a brisk counter-attack with Uttam Singh doing all the hardwork on the right flank to set it up for Rajkumar Pal, who neatly pushed it past the Japanese goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa.

Three minutes later, the Indians secured two back-to-back penalty corners but wasted both. In the last five minutes of the first quarter, Japan pressed hard in search of the equaliser and mounted numerous raids but the Indian defence stood firm to hold on to their lead.

Trailing by a goal, Japan continued to attack and in the process earned two consecutive penalty corners in the 20th minute but the Indians defended in numbers to keep their lead intact. Both Japan and India had a few more chances in the second quarters but both the teams faltered in the final third.

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Japan came out attacking after the change of ends and secured two more penalty corners in quick succession but they failed to break the resolute Indian defence. 
In between India had a golden chance to extend their lead but Rajkumar shot over from close quarters from a SV Sunil pass.

The Japanese put relentless pressure on the Indian citadel in the final two quarters in search of the equaliser but the Birendra-Lakra side stood like a rock to deny their opponents. In the 48th minute, Japan secured three successive penalty corners but couldn't breach the Indian backline.

Japan earned another penalty corner in the 51st minute but the Indian defence once again foiled the chance. While Japan pressed hard in the remaining minutes the Indians put numbers at the back to successfully defend their one goal lead and secure a podium finish.

Later in the day, Malaysia and South Korea will face off in the title clash.

The young Indian men's hockey team produced a spirited performance to beat Japan 1-0 and clinch the bronze medal in the Asia Cup here on Wednesday. After missing out on a place in the title clash on goal difference following an exciting 4-4 draw with South Korea on Tuesday, defending champions India came out with purpose and scored a field goal through Raj Kumar Pal as early as in the seventh minute of the game and then defended in numbers to seal the deal.

The young Indian men's hockey team produced a spirited performance to beat Japan 1-0 and clinch the bronze medal in the Asia Cup here on Wednesday. After missing out on a place in the title clash on goal difference following an exciting 4-4 draw with South Korea on Tuesday, defending champions India came out with purpose and scored a field goal through Raj Kumar Pal as early as in the seventh minute of the game and then defended in numbers to seal the deal. India started brightly and pushed hard in the first five minutes of the match but their attacks fizzled once out inside the opposition D. The Indians, however, broke the deadlock in the seventh minute from a brisk counter-attack with Uttam Singh doing all the hardwork on the right flank to set it up for Rajkumar Pal, who neatly pushed it past the Japanese goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa. Three minutes later, the Indians secured two back-to-back penalty corners but wasted both. In the last five minutes of the first quarter, Japan pressed hard in search of the equaliser and mounted numerous raids but the Indian defence stood firm to hold on to their lead. Trailing by a goal, Japan continued to attack and in the process earned two consecutive penalty corners in the 20th minute but the Indians defended in numbers to keep their lead intact. Both Japan and India had a few more chances in the second quarters but both the teams faltered in the final third. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Team India humiliate Indonesia with 16-0 win to enter Super 4, eliminate Pakistan Japan came out attacking after the change of ends and secured two more penalty corners in quick succession but they failed to break the resolute Indian defence. In between India had a golden chance to extend their lead but Rajkumar shot over from close quarters from a SV Sunil pass. The Japanese put relentless pressure on the Indian citadel in the final two quarters in search of the equaliser but the Birendra-Lakra side stood like a rock to deny their opponents. In the 48th minute, Japan secured three successive penalty corners but couldn't breach the Indian backline. Japan earned another penalty corner in the 51st minute but the Indian defence once again foiled the chance. While Japan pressed hard in the remaining minutes the Indians put numbers at the back to successfully defend their one goal lead and secure a podium finish. Later in the day, Malaysia and South Korea will face off in the title clash.

India produce spirited effort to beat Japan 1-0 and secure bronze in Asia Cup

Mandeep Singh scored a goal in the dying moments of the match as India edged past 4-3 against 2016 Olympic champions Argentina here at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium.

Hardik Singh scored a goal too while Jugraj Singh scored a brace for India to avenge the previous match defeat against Argentina in the shootout.

Just like the previous match, where India lost 1-3 in a shootout after a 2-2 draw, this match's first quarter too ended without a goal being scored from both sides.

The Indian team started the second quarter on a positive note as Mandeep Singh earned a penalty corner for India where Hardik Singh scored for the team on the rebound after Harmanpreet's drag-flick was blocked to give his side a 1-0 lead.

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Three minutes later India earned another penalty corner which was converted by drag-flicker Jugraj Singh who scored his fourth international goal to put hosts 2-0 ahead in the match.

After trailing 0-2 Argentina did try hard to get to the scoring sheet and also earned two penalties but failed to convert as Indian goalkeeper Krishan Pathak managed to save it and the Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist went to half-time with a 2-0 lead.

After half-time, the visitors kept on trying for a goal and they earned a penalty corner in the 40th minute of the match which was converted by Nicolas della Torre as Argentina pulled one goal back going into the final quarter.

In the final quarter, Surender Kumar`s tackle from the back helped Argentina earn a penalty stroke where the visitors scored to make it 2-2.

In the very next minute, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay helped India earn another penalty corner where Jugraj Singh scored his second goal of the match to put his side 3-2 ahead with only eight minutes remaining in the match.

The Argentines were not willing to give up without a fight and they earned a penalty immediately but goalkeeper Krishan Pathak once again came to India's rescue.

In the 53rd minute, India got yet another penalty which Jugraj Singh converted to make it his hat-trick of the match but his happiness was shortlived as Argentina reviewed the decision and the goal was turned down after a review suggested that India collected the ball inside the circle.

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In the 56th minute of the match, Argentina got the equaliser to make it 3-3 as Martin Ferreiro scored for them. Just like the previous match, it seemed as even this match will go to a shootout.

With only 26 seconds remaining a superb pass into the circle from Jugraj Singh helped Mandeep Singh get a brilliant touch with his back to goal to deflect it in.

Mandeep's last-minute goal in the previous first leg match helped India get an equaliser and a goal in the second leg match helped the side get a winner as hosts edged past visitors 4-3.

India's defender Varun Kumar was named the 'Player of the Match'&nbsp;for his stellar performance.

Mandeep Singh scored a goal in the dying moments of the match as India edged past 4-3 against 2016 Olympic champions Argentina here at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium.

Mandeep Singh scored a goal in the dying moments of the match as India edged past 4-3 against 2016 Olympic champions Argentina here at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium. Hardik Singh scored a goal too while Jugraj Singh scored a brace for India to avenge the previous match defeat against Argentina in the shootout. Just like the previous match, where India lost 1-3 in a shootout after a 2-2 draw, this match's first quarter too ended without a goal being scored from both sides. The Indian team started the second quarter on a positive note as Mandeep Singh earned a penalty corner for India where Hardik Singh scored for the team on the rebound after Harmanpreet's drag-flick was blocked to give his side a 1-0 lead. ALSO READ: Winter sports in India: Huge number of female participants from across country Three minutes later India earned another penalty corner which was converted by drag-flicker Jugraj Singh who scored his fourth international goal to put hosts 2-0 ahead in the match. After trailing 0-2 Argentina did try hard to get to the scoring sheet and also earned two penalties but failed to convert as Indian goalkeeper Krishan Pathak managed to save it and the Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist went to half-time with a 2-0 lead. After half-time, the visitors kept on trying for a goal and they earned a penalty corner in the 40th minute of the match which was converted by Nicolas della Torre as Argentina pulled one goal back going into the final quarter. In the final quarter, Surender Kumar`s tackle from the back helped Argentina earn a penalty stroke where the visitors scored to make it 2-2. In the very next minute, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay helped India earn another penalty corner where Jugraj Singh scored his second goal of the match to put his side 3-2 ahead with only eight minutes remaining in the match. The Argentines were not willing to give up without a fight and they earned a penalty immediately but goalkeeper Krishan Pathak once again came to India's rescue. In the 53rd minute, India got yet another penalty which Jugraj Singh converted to make it his hat-trick of the match but his happiness was shortlived as Argentina reviewed the decision and the goal was turned down after a review suggested that India collected the ball inside the circle. ALSO READ: FA Cup: Liverpool to play Man City in semis after close 1-0 win against Nottingham, Palace to face Chelsea In the 56th minute of the match, Argentina got the equaliser to make it 3-3 as Martin Ferreiro scored for them. Just like the previous match, it seemed as even this match will go to a shootout. With only 26 seconds remaining a superb pass into the circle from Jugraj Singh helped Mandeep Singh get a brilliant touch with his back to goal to deflect it in. Mandeep's last-minute goal in the previous first leg match helped India get an equaliser and a goal in the second leg match helped the side get a winner as hosts edged past visitors 4-3. India's defender Varun Kumar was named the 'Player of the Match' for his stellar performance.

FIH Hockey Pro League: Mandeep Singh's late strike helps India edge past Argentina 4-3

Hockey India named the 20-member Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team for the much-awaited FIH Women's Junior World Cup 2021 which was postponed to 2022 due to the omicron threat in South Africa.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on April 1 in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

The Indian team, grouped in Pool D along with Germany, Malaysia and Wales, will be Captained by Salima Tete and Vice Captained by Ishika Chaudhary.

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They will kick-start their campaign on 2 April 2022 with their first match against Wales Junior Women followed by their match against the German Junior team on 3 April 2022 and they will play their last group-stage match on April 5 against Malaysia.

The Quarter Finals will be held on 8 April 2022 whereas the Semi-Finals is scheduled for 10 April 2022 and the Final on 12 April 2022 The 20-member squad consists of goalkeepers Bichu Devi Kharibam, who recently made her Senior India debut at the FIH Hockey Pro League matches against Germany, and Khushboo.

The defenders include Marina Lalramnghaki, Preeti, Priyanka, Ishika Chaudhary and Akshata Abaso Dekhale, who also made her Senior India debut against Germany at the recently held FIH Hockey Pro League matches in Bhubaneswar.

Reet, Ajmina Kujur, Baljeet Kaur and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke will form the Indian midfield along with Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami -- all three were part of the Indian Women's team that finished fourth in the Tokyo Olympics.

The forward line will feature Lalrindiki, Jiwan Kishori Toppo, Mumtaz Khan, Beauty Dungdung, Deepika and Sangita Kumari, who also made her Senior debut recently.

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Speaking about the team, Chief Coach Janneke Schopman said, "After a long wait our Junior players are definitely ready to start their Junior World Cup experience. It was difficult to finalize the selection as all players showed a lot of progress in the past months which is great to see."

"With a couple of players making their debut for the Senior Team in the Pro League recently, I believe that the added experience will have a positive influence. The team overall has a nice mixture of different skills and talents and am excited to see them taking on the best teams in the world at U21 level," Schopman added.

The Indian Junior Women's Team's best show in recent times was at the FIH Junior Women's World Cup in 2013 when they finished on the podium with a Bronze Medal beating nemesis England in a shootout.

Hockey India named the 20-member Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team for the much-awaited FIH Women's Junior World Cup 2021 which was postponed to 2022 due to the omicron threat in South Africa.

Hockey India named the 20-member Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team for the much-awaited FIH Women's Junior World Cup 2021 which was postponed to 2022 due to the omicron threat in South Africa. The tournament is scheduled to begin on April 1 in Potchefstroom, South Africa. The Indian team, grouped in Pool D along with Germany, Malaysia and Wales, will be Captained by Salima Tete and Vice Captained by Ishika Chaudhary. ALSO READ: Babar Azam, Md Rizwan's heroics helps Pakistan draw 2nd Test against Australia in Karachi They will kick-start their campaign on 2 April 2022 with their first match against Wales Junior Women followed by their match against the German Junior team on 3 April 2022 and they will play their last group-stage match on April 5 against Malaysia. The Quarter Finals will be held on 8 April 2022 whereas the Semi-Finals is scheduled for 10 April 2022 and the Final on 12 April 2022 The 20-member squad consists of goalkeepers Bichu Devi Kharibam, who recently made her Senior India debut at the FIH Hockey Pro League matches against Germany, and Khushboo. The defenders include Marina Lalramnghaki, Preeti, Priyanka, Ishika Chaudhary and Akshata Abaso Dekhale, who also made her Senior India debut against Germany at the recently held FIH Hockey Pro League matches in Bhubaneswar. Reet, Ajmina Kujur, Baljeet Kaur and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke will form the Indian midfield along with Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami -- all three were part of the Indian Women's team that finished fourth in the Tokyo Olympics. The forward line will feature Lalrindiki, Jiwan Kishori Toppo, Mumtaz Khan, Beauty Dungdung, Deepika and Sangita Kumari, who also made her Senior debut recently. ALSO READ: EXPLAINED! Here's how Mithali Raj's India can make it to CWC 2022 semi-finals after England drubbing Speaking about the team, Chief Coach Janneke Schopman said, "After a long wait our Junior players are definitely ready to start their Junior World Cup experience. It was difficult to finalize the selection as all players showed a lot of progress in the past months which is great to see." "With a couple of players making their debut for the Senior Team in the Pro League recently, I believe that the added experience will have a positive influence. The team overall has a nice mixture of different skills and talents and am excited to see them taking on the best teams in the world at U21 level," Schopman added. The Indian Junior Women's Team's best show in recent times was at the FIH Junior Women's World Cup in 2013 when they finished on the podium with a Bronze Medal beating nemesis England in a shootout.

Hockey India announces 20-member squad for FIH Women's Junior World Cup

Two-time Olympic medallist and Padma Shri award winner Charanjit Singh passed away on Thursday in Una district, Himachal Pradesh, due to age-related complications. He was 92. The Arjuna Award winner was part of India`s glorious days. A charismatic halfback, Charanjit Singh had led the Indian team to a historic gold medal in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, beating Pakistan in the final and was also part of the Indian team that won silver in the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. 
 
Born on November 20, 1929, Charanjit Singh was an alumnus of Col. Brown Cambridge School, Dehradun and Punjab University. After his illustrious career in international hockey, he worked as Director of the Physical Education department at Himachal Pradesh University, in Shimla.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-pv-sindhu-5-indian-athletes-who-have-been-honoured-with-padma-bhushan-award-447547">From MS Dhoni to PV Sindhu: 5 Indian athletes who have been honoured with Padma Bhushan award</a>

Hockey India on Thursday mourned the demise of hockey legend Charanjit Singh. When Hockey India had interviewed the legend in June 2021 for the Hockey India Flashback Series in the lead-up to the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, he had fondly remembered the final against Pakistan during the Tokyo Olympics in 1964, the association said in a press release. He had nostalgically stated, "Both the teams were regarded among the strongest teams during that time, and we had a very challenging outing against them. Moreover, you know, how intense it becomes when you play against Pakistan that too in the final of the Olympics. The match was also interrupted briefly to cool down the tempers of both teams. I told my boys to focus on the game, rather than wasting time talking to them. We were tested hard but also showed great character, and won the match by a narrow 1-0 margin to return home with that historic Gold medal." 
 
He had further remembered about the grand welcome they received upon returning to India wearing the coveted Gold medal around their necks. "Winning two medals for the country has been a moment of pride and honour for me. You know, after winning the Gold Medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, we were accorded a warm welcome on our arrival at the airport, a lot of fans had assembled, and it was a very special feeling for every one of us." 
 
Condoling Charanjit Singh`s demise, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "It is a sad day for the hockey fraternity. Even in his old age, he would light up every time there were conversations about hockey and he could accurately recall every great moment he was part of India`s golden days of hockey. He was a legendary halfback who inspired an entire generation of players. He was a very cool-headed captain and he will forever be remembered for his incredible skills on the field and for his humility off the field. On behalf of Hockey India, I expressed my deepest condolences to his family."

Two-time Olympic medallist and Padma Shri award winner Charanjit Singh passed away on Thursday in Una district, Himachal Pradesh, due to age-related complications.

Two-time Olympic medallist and Padma Shri award winner Charanjit Singh passed away on Thursday in Una district, Himachal Pradesh, due to age-related complications. He was 92. The Arjuna Award winner was part of India`s glorious days. A charismatic halfback, Charanjit Singh had led the Indian team to a historic gold medal in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, beating Pakistan in the final and was also part of the Indian team that won silver in the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. Born on November 20, 1929, Charanjit Singh was an alumnus of Col. Brown Cambridge School, Dehradun and Punjab University. After his illustrious career in international hockey, he worked as Director of the Physical Education department at Himachal Pradesh University, in Shimla. ALSO READ | From MS Dhoni to PV Sindhu: 5 Indian athletes who have been honoured with Padma Bhushan award Hockey India on Thursday mourned the demise of hockey legend Charanjit Singh. When Hockey India had interviewed the legend in June 2021 for the Hockey India Flashback Series in the lead-up to the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, he had fondly remembered the final against Pakistan during the Tokyo Olympics in 1964, the association said in a press release. He had nostalgically stated, "Both the teams were regarded among the strongest teams during that time, and we had a very challenging outing against them. Moreover, you know, how intense it becomes when you play against Pakistan that too in the final of the Olympics. The match was also interrupted briefly to cool down the tempers of both teams. I told my boys to focus on the game, rather than wasting time talking to them. We were tested hard but also showed great character, and won the match by a narrow 1-0 margin to return home with that historic Gold medal." He had further remembered about the grand welcome they received upon returning to India wearing the coveted Gold medal around their necks. "Winning two medals for the country has been a moment of pride and honour for me. You know, after winning the Gold Medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, we were accorded a warm welcome on our arrival at the airport, a lot of fans had assembled, and it was a very special feeling for every one of us." Condoling Charanjit Singh`s demise, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "It is a sad day for the hockey fraternity. Even in his old age, he would light up every time there were conversations about hockey and he could accurately recall every great moment he was part of India`s golden days of hockey. He was a legendary halfback who inspired an entire generation of players. He was a very cool-headed captain and he will forever be remembered for his incredible skills on the field and for his humility off the field. On behalf of Hockey India, I expressed my deepest condolences to his family."

Two-time Olympic medallist Charanjit Singh passes away at 92

Hockey India on Friday named the 18-member squad for the upcoming Donghae women's Asian Champions Trophy which is scheduled to be held between December 5 - 12.

India begin their campaign on the opening day and will battle it out against China, Korea, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia in the single-pool tournament for top honours.

The Indian team will see Savita, who was named the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, captain the side along with experienced defender Deep Grace Ekka, who will be her deputy.

The team includes goalkeeper Rajani Etimarpu and defenders Udita, Nikki Pradhan, Gurjit Kaur, who were all part of the Tokyo Olympics squad.

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The midfield includes Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nisha, Monika, Neha, Jyoti who played for India in their historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics. Namita Toppo, who was the alternate player at the Tokyo Olympics, as well as her state-mate from Odisha Lilima Minz are also part of the team.

The forward line will see two-time Olympian Vandana Katariya lead the charge with Navneet Kaur who was part of the Tokyo Olympic squad. Forwards Rajwinder Kaur, Mariana Kujur and Sonika too have been named to the team.

"Despite some unfortunate injuries and Senior players joining the Junior team for the Junior World Cup in South Africa, I feel we have selected a good team for the upcoming Women's Asian Champions Trophy," said Chief Coach for Indian Women`s Hockey Team Janneke Schopman in a Hockey India release.

"This tournament will be a good opportunity for some young new players to get a taste of the highest international level and I'm excited to see if we can implement our training themes consistently."

"I'm sure that expectations are high after our success at the Tokyo Olympics but we all start at zero again.

I am confident that we can show our abilities and will be looking for our team to play consistently at a high pace," Schopman added.

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Navjot Kaur and youngster Suman Devi Thoudam have been chosen as alternate players (Ap) who will be permitted to play only if there is an injury or someone in the 18-member squad is ruled out of the tournament due to COVID-19.

India will play Malaysia on December 6 and defending champions Korea in their third match on December 8.

India plays China on December 9 and Japan on December 11. The final will take place on December 12 between the topper of the pool and the team that finished second in the pool.&nbsp;

Hockey India on Friday named the 18-member squad for the upcoming Donghae women's Asian Champions Trophy which is scheduled to be held between December 5 - 12. India begin their campaign on the opening day and will battle it out against China, Korea, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia in the single-pool tournament for top honours.

Hockey India on Friday named the 18-member squad for the upcoming Donghae women's Asian Champions Trophy which is scheduled to be held between December 5 - 12. India begin their campaign on the opening day and will battle it out against China, Korea, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia in the single-pool tournament for top honours. The Indian team will see Savita, who was named the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, captain the side along with experienced defender Deep Grace Ekka, who will be her deputy. The team includes goalkeeper Rajani Etimarpu and defenders Udita, Nikki Pradhan, Gurjit Kaur, who were all part of the Tokyo Olympics squad. IN PICS: From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 The midfield includes Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nisha, Monika, Neha, Jyoti who played for India in their historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics. Namita Toppo, who was the alternate player at the Tokyo Olympics, as well as her state-mate from Odisha Lilima Minz are also part of the team. The forward line will see two-time Olympian Vandana Katariya lead the charge with Navneet Kaur who was part of the Tokyo Olympic squad. Forwards Rajwinder Kaur, Mariana Kujur and Sonika too have been named to the team. "Despite some unfortunate injuries and Senior players joining the Junior team for the Junior World Cup in South Africa, I feel we have selected a good team for the upcoming Women's Asian Champions Trophy," said Chief Coach for Indian Women`s Hockey Team Janneke Schopman in a Hockey India release. "This tournament will be a good opportunity for some young new players to get a taste of the highest international level and I'm excited to see if we can implement our training themes consistently." "I'm sure that expectations are high after our success at the Tokyo Olympics but we all start at zero again. I am confident that we can show our abilities and will be looking for our team to play consistently at a high pace," Schopman added. IN PICS: From Shikhar Dhawan to Ankita Raina: A look at players who won prestigious Arjuna award this year Navjot Kaur and youngster Suman Devi Thoudam have been chosen as alternate players (Ap) who will be permitted to play only if there is an injury or someone in the 18-member squad is ruled out of the tournament due to COVID-19. India will play Malaysia on December 6 and defending champions Korea in their third match on December 8. India plays China on December 9 and Japan on December 11. The final will take place on December 12 between the topper of the pool and the team that finished second in the pool.

Hockey India names 18-member squad for Women's Asian Champions Trophy

Hockey India on Wednesday congratulated experienced goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and skipper Manpreet Singh on being conferred with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest honour for a sportsperson in India.

While Sreejesh had an exceptional outing at the Tokyo Olympic Games and was also awarded the FIH Goal Keeper of the Year award 2020-21 for his exploits guarding India`s post in the team's Olympic Bronze medal winning feat, Manpreet Singh Captained the Indian Men`s Hockey team which successfully ended India's 41-year-long wait to win an Olympic medal in field hockey.

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The Wall named PR Sreejesh 💪 
 
Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@16Sreejesh</a> on getting the highest sporting honour of India, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/fxQrQjXBfD">pic.twitter.com/fxQrQjXBfD</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1455787438102646786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The entire Indian Men's Hockey Team part of the Olympic success too have been honoured with the Arjuna award.

The list includes Rupinder Pal Singh, Surender Kumar, Birendra Lakra, Harmanpreet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Shamsher Singh, Hardik Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Amit Rohidas, Sumit, Gurjant Singh, Varun Kumar and Simranjeet Singh.

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From the Indian Women`s Hockey team, experienced forward Vandana Katariya and midfielder Monika too have been named for the Arjuna award. Both Vandana and Monika were part of the Indian Women`s Hockey team at the Rio Olympics 2016 as well as the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020 where the Indian women won a billion hearts with their historic fourth place finish.

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Since making his national team debut to winning the Bronze Medal at the Olympics, Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manpreetpawar07</a> has come a long way 🔥 
 
Congratulations Manpreet Singh on getting the highest sporting honour of India, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZtC8b6bS5y">pic.twitter.com/ZtC8b6bS5y</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1455813101584990208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Former International hockey player and veteran hockey Coach Sarpal Singh has been selected for the Dronacharya Award for lifetime achievement while former Indian women's hockey Captain and Coach Pritam Siwach has been selected for the Dronacharya award. Meanwhile, Davinder Singh Garcha will be awarded the Dhyan Chand Award for lifetime achievement for his contribution to Indian hockey.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-ravi-dahiya-mithali-raj-likely-to-be-conferred-with-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-award-424487">Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya, Mithali Raj likely to be conferred with Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award</a>

Congratulating all the winners, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "This is truly a historic moment for the sport as two stalwart players will be honoured with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award. On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate them and also wish them the best in their future endeavours as there is still lots to achieve for Indian hockey and they have been important members of the squad."

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Hockey India congratulates Monika and Vandana Katariya for being conferred with the Arjuna Award for their outstanding performance in Hockey 👏 
 
You have done us proud 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z9IdKCW8MZ">pic.twitter.com/Z9IdKCW8MZ</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1455843903538548746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I also congratulate all the members of the Indian Men`s team who have been named for the Arjuna award. It is indeed remarkable that the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is recognising the team's historic efforts at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. I also congratulate Vandana and Monika from the women`s team who have also been named for the Arjuna award. Their contribution to Women's hockey is immense and they are deserving of the recognition.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-wrestling-federation-wants-arjuna-award-for-ravi-dahiya-425040">Not Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna! Wrestling Federation wants Arjuna Award for Ravi Dahiya</a>

I also congratulate Coaches Sarpal Singh (lifetime achievement) and Pritam Siwach for being awarded the Dronacharya award. I also congratulate Davinder Singh Garcha who has been named for the Dhyan Chand Award for lifetime achievement. I also thank these veterans for their immense contribution to Indian hockey," he added.&nbsp;

Hockey India on Wednesday congratulated experienced goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and skipper Manpreet Singh on being conferred with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest honour for a sportsperson in India.

Hockey India on Wednesday congratulated experienced goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and skipper Manpreet Singh on being conferred with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest honour for a sportsperson in India. While Sreejesh had an exceptional outing at the Tokyo Olympic Games and was also awarded the FIH Goal Keeper of the Year award 2020-21 for his exploits guarding India`s post in the team's Olympic Bronze medal winning feat, Manpreet Singh Captained the Indian Men`s Hockey team which successfully ended India's 41-year-long wait to win an Olympic medal in field hockey. The Wall named PR Sreejesh 💪 Congratulations @16Sreejesh on getting the highest sporting honour of India, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 👏#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/fxQrQjXBfD — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 3, 2021 × The entire Indian Men's Hockey Team part of the Olympic success too have been honoured with the Arjuna award. The list includes Rupinder Pal Singh, Surender Kumar, Birendra Lakra, Harmanpreet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Shamsher Singh, Hardik Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Amit Rohidas, Sumit, Gurjant Singh, Varun Kumar and Simranjeet Singh. ALSO READ: Anurag Thakur hands over trophies to Rani, Vinesh and other 2020 National Sports Awards winners From the Indian Women`s Hockey team, experienced forward Vandana Katariya and midfielder Monika too have been named for the Arjuna award. Both Vandana and Monika were part of the Indian Women`s Hockey team at the Rio Olympics 2016 as well as the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020 where the Indian women won a billion hearts with their historic fourth place finish. Since making his national team debut to winning the Bronze Medal at the Olympics, Captain @manpreetpawar07 has come a long way 🔥 Congratulations Manpreet Singh on getting the highest sporting honour of India, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 👏#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/ZtC8b6bS5y — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 3, 2021 × Former International hockey player and veteran hockey Coach Sarpal Singh has been selected for the Dronacharya Award for lifetime achievement while former Indian women's hockey Captain and Coach Pritam Siwach has been selected for the Dronacharya award. Meanwhile, Davinder Singh Garcha will be awarded the Dhyan Chand Award for lifetime achievement for his contribution to Indian hockey. ALSO READ: Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Dahiya, Mithali Raj likely to be conferred with Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award Congratulating all the winners, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "This is truly a historic moment for the sport as two stalwart players will be honoured with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award. On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate them and also wish them the best in their future endeavours as there is still lots to achieve for Indian hockey and they have been important members of the squad." Hockey India congratulates Monika and Vandana Katariya for being conferred with the Arjuna Award for their outstanding performance in Hockey 👏 You have done us proud 🇮🇳#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/Z9IdKCW8MZ — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 3, 2021 × "I also congratulate all the members of the Indian Men`s team who have been named for the Arjuna award. It is indeed remarkable that the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is recognising the team's historic efforts at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. I also congratulate Vandana and Monika from the women`s team who have also been named for the Arjuna award. Their contribution to Women's hockey is immense and they are deserving of the recognition. ALSO READ: Not Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna! Wrestling Federation wants Arjuna Award for Ravi Dahiya I also congratulate Coaches Sarpal Singh (lifetime achievement) and Pritam Siwach for being awarded the Dronacharya award. I also congratulate Davinder Singh Garcha who has been named for the Dhyan Chand Award for lifetime achievement. I also thank these veterans for their immense contribution to Indian hockey," he added.

Historic moment to see PR Sreejesh, Manpreet Singh being chosen for Khel Ratna, says Hockey India President

India has withdrawn its men's and women's hockey teams from the Birmingham Commonwealth Games of 2022. Hockey India has cited Britain's discriminatory quarantine rules among the reasons for their withdrawal. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India-UK vaccine spat spills into hockey

Hockey India on Wednesday congratulated all the award winners of the FIH Hockey Stars Awards which was announced on Wednesday by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). The voting-based annual awards had six Indian hockey players and two coaches from both the Indian hockey teams (Men and Women) nominated for various categories. This is the first time that all nominees from India have won the prestigious awards in their respective categories. India`s dragflick sensation Harmanpreet Singh was crowned the `FIH Player of the Year` in the men`s category. He was the top scorer in India`s Bronze medal-winning performance at the Tokyo Olympic Games.

Meanwhile, Indian women`s hockey team dragflicker Gurjit Kaur won the `FIH Player of The Year` in the women`s category. India`s famed goalkeeper PR Sreejesh won the `Goalkeeper of the Year` in the men`s category. Sreejesh came up with a career-best performance at the Olympic Games 2020 and was the cynosure of Indian defence. Indian women team custodian Savita, on the other hand, won the `Goalkeeper of the Year` in the women`s category. Savita, who was also the joint-vice captain for the Indian women`s hockey team at the Olympic Games 2020, was outstanding in guarding India`s post and played an instrumental role in the team finishing fourth in the Tokyo Olympic Games.

In the FIH Rising Star of the Year for men, Vivek Sagar Prasad won the award for the second consecutive time. In the FIH Rising Star of the year for women, Sharmila Devi won the award with maximum votes ahead of Great Britain`s Fiona Crackles and Argentina`s Valentina Raposo. Indian men`s hockey chief coach Graham Reid was awarded the FIH Coach of the Year.

He was nominated along with Australia`s Colin Batch and Belgium`s Shane McLeod. Former Indian women`s hockey chief coach Sjoerd Marijne too was awarded the `FIH Coach of the Year` in the women`s team category.

Congratulating the award winners, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "This is a great moment for Indian hockey as all our Indian nominees for the FIH Stars Awards have been announced winners. After the historic performances in Tokyo by both Indian men and women`s hockey teams, the support from Indian fans from across the globe has been overwhelming. We thank everyone who supported the nominees by voting for them. This is a big moment for us and these awards will definitely inspire future generations to take up the sport professionally. On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate all the award winners and wish them success in their future endeavours." (ANI)

Hockey India on Wednesday congratulated all the award winners of the FIH Hockey Stars Awards which was announced on Wednesday by the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

Hockey India on Wednesday congratulated all the award winners of the FIH Hockey Stars Awards which was announced on Wednesday by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). The voting-based annual awards had six Indian hockey players and two coaches from both the Indian hockey teams (Men and Women) nominated for various categories. This is the first time that all nominees from India have won the prestigious awards in their respective categories. India`s dragflick sensation Harmanpreet Singh was crowned the `FIH Player of the Year` in the men`s category. He was the top scorer in India`s Bronze medal-winning performance at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Meanwhile, Indian women`s hockey team dragflicker Gurjit Kaur won the `FIH Player of The Year` in the women`s category. India`s famed goalkeeper PR Sreejesh won the `Goalkeeper of the Year` in the men`s category. Sreejesh came up with a career-best performance at the Olympic Games 2020 and was the cynosure of Indian defence. Indian women team custodian Savita, on the other hand, won the `Goalkeeper of the Year` in the women`s category. Savita, who was also the joint-vice captain for the Indian women`s hockey team at the Olympic Games 2020, was outstanding in guarding India`s post and played an instrumental role in the team finishing fourth in the Tokyo Olympic Games. In the FIH Rising Star of the Year for men, Vivek Sagar Prasad won the award for the second consecutive time. In the FIH Rising Star of the year for women, Sharmila Devi won the award with maximum votes ahead of Great Britain`s Fiona Crackles and Argentina`s Valentina Raposo. Indian men`s hockey chief coach Graham Reid was awarded the FIH Coach of the Year. He was nominated along with Australia`s Colin Batch and Belgium`s Shane McLeod. Former Indian women`s hockey chief coach Sjoerd Marijne too was awarded the `FIH Coach of the Year` in the women`s team category. Congratulating the award winners, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "This is a great moment for Indian hockey as all our Indian nominees for the FIH Stars Awards have been announced winners. After the historic performances in Tokyo by both Indian men and women`s hockey teams, the support from Indian fans from across the globe has been overwhelming. We thank everyone who supported the nominees by voting for them. This is a big moment for us and these awards will definitely inspire future generations to take up the sport professionally. On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate all the award winners and wish them success in their future endeavours." (ANI)

Great moment for Indian hockey as all our nominees for FIH Stars Awards have won, says HI President

India swept the International Hockey Federation's annual awards on Wednesday, claiming all the top honours based on a voting system which was lambasted as a "failure" by men's Olympic champions Belgium, prompting the FIH to say that it would try to figure why some associations did not cast their ballot.

Five Indian players and the head coaches of both the men's and women's teams in Tokyo claimed the top honours across different categories after fetching the maximum votes. The men's hockey team had won a bronze, its first in 41 years, in the Tokyo Olympics, while the women's side had finished an unprecedented fourth in the showpiece. 
Harmanpreet Singh won the men's 'Player of the Year' award and Gurjit Kaur was recognised as the best player in the women's section. Veteran P R Sreejesh and Savita Punia won the best goalkeeper awards in the men's and women's section, while young striker Sharmila Devi (women) and Vivek Sagar Prasad (men) were adjudged best rising stars.

The drag-click duo of Harmanpreet and Gurjit were the top-scorers in their respective team's stellar run at the Games. Men's team coach Graham Reid and women's coach Sjoerd Marijne were also voted the best. While Reid is still with the team, Marijne's tenure ended after the Tokyo Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-india-withdraws-from-2022-birmingham-cwg-cites-covid-concerns-discriminatory-quarantine-rules-418432">Hockey India withdraws from 2022 Birmingham CWG; cites Covid concerns, discriminatory quarantine rules</a>

Hockey Belgium reacted sharply to the announcement of the winners and questioned the process as none of their Tokyo Games champions managed to win an award. Votes from National Associations -- represented by their respective national captains and coaches -- accounted for 50 per cent of the overall result, while fans and players (25 per cent) as well as media (25 per cent) made the other half of the votes. 
It is to be noted that only 19 associations from the 42-strong European bloc cast their votes, compared to 29 out of 33 in Asia.

"Hockey Belgium is very disappointed with the outcome of @FIH_Hockey Star Awards. A gold winning team with multiple nominees in all categories but doesn't win a single award demonstrates failure of the voting system. We will work with FIH to ensure a fairer system in the future," the Belgian association tweeted.

The sentiment was shared by the team's official handle as well. "We fully agree! This is not normal! The credibility and image of our sport is once again facing hard times. It's a pitty (sic) @FIH," stated the Red Lions. 
In all, 79 National Associations voted, the others being Africa (11 out of 25 Member Associations), Oceania (3 out of 8), and Pan America (17 out of 30) "And with a record number of almost 300,000 fans casting their votes, fan participation in the FIH Hockey Stars Awards has been exceptional," the FIH said.

Following Belgium's objection, FIH issued a statement to clarify its stand and promised a review if necessary. 
"As one can see, all winning athletes have topped the standings in each of the three voting groups...As always FIH will conduct a review of the FIH Hockey Star Awards and make adjustments wherever deemed necessary. In particular, we will focus on establishing why a number of national associations failed to vote," it said. 
The nominations from Belgium (men) and the Netherlands (women), who were not only crowned Olympic Champions but also won the 2020-21 FIH Hockey Pro League, finished behind the Indians once the votes were counted.

Belgium duo of Alexander Hendrickx and Arthur van Doren were voted second and third best players respectively among men, with Vincent Vanasch (Belgium) named second best goalkeeper and Shane McLeod of New Zealand second best coach. Among women, Eva de Goede and Frederique Matla of the Netherlands clinched the respective second and third places in the Player of the Year awards while Alyson Annan of Australia finished second for the FIH Coach of the Year Award.

Great Britain goalkeeper Maddie Hinch, rising star Fiona Crackles and coach Mark Hager of Australia all were third in their respective categories.

With the FIH Hockey Stars Awards skipped in 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 global health pandemic on the international calendar, this year's awards covered the period from January 2020 through to the conclusion of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, the FIH said.

"The voting process started on 23 August and concluded on 15 September 2021. Votes from National Associations - represented by their respective national captains and coaches - counted for 50 pe cent of the overall result, while fans and players (25 per cent) as well as media (25 per cent) made the other half of the votes," it added. 
Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam congratulated the winners.

"This is a great moment for Indian hockey as all our Indian nominees for the FIH Stars Awards have been announced winners. "After the historic performances in Tokyo by both Indian Men and Women's Hockey teams, the support from Indian fans from across the globe has been overwhelming," he said.&nbsp;

India swept the International Hockey Federation's annual awards on Wednesday, claiming all the top honours based on a voting system which was lambasted as a "failure" by men's Olympic champions Belgium, prompting the FIH to say that it would try to figure why some associations did not cast their ballot.

India swept the International Hockey Federation's annual awards on Wednesday, claiming all the top honours based on a voting system which was lambasted as a "failure" by men's Olympic champions Belgium, prompting the FIH to say that it would try to figure why some associations did not cast their ballot. Five Indian players and the head coaches of both the men's and women's teams in Tokyo claimed the top honours across different categories after fetching the maximum votes. The men's hockey team had won a bronze, its first in 41 years, in the Tokyo Olympics, while the women's side had finished an unprecedented fourth in the showpiece. Harmanpreet Singh won the men's 'Player of the Year' award and Gurjit Kaur was recognised as the best player in the women's section. Veteran P R Sreejesh and Savita Punia won the best goalkeeper awards in the men's and women's section, while young striker Sharmila Devi (women) and Vivek Sagar Prasad (men) were adjudged best rising stars. The drag-click duo of Harmanpreet and Gurjit were the top-scorers in their respective team's stellar run at the Games. Men's team coach Graham Reid and women's coach Sjoerd Marijne were also voted the best. While Reid is still with the team, Marijne's tenure ended after the Tokyo Games. ALSO READ | Hockey India withdraws from 2022 Birmingham CWG; cites Covid concerns, discriminatory quarantine rules Hockey Belgium reacted sharply to the announcement of the winners and questioned the process as none of their Tokyo Games champions managed to win an award. Votes from National Associations -- represented by their respective national captains and coaches -- accounted for 50 per cent of the overall result, while fans and players (25 per cent) as well as media (25 per cent) made the other half of the votes. It is to be noted that only 19 associations from the 42-strong European bloc cast their votes, compared to 29 out of 33 in Asia. "Hockey Belgium is very disappointed with the outcome of @FIH_Hockey Star Awards. A gold winning team with multiple nominees in all categories but doesn't win a single award demonstrates failure of the voting system. We will work with FIH to ensure a fairer system in the future," the Belgian association tweeted. The sentiment was shared by the team's official handle as well. "We fully agree! This is not normal! The credibility and image of our sport is once again facing hard times. It's a pitty (sic) @FIH," stated the Red Lions. In all, 79 National Associations voted, the others being Africa (11 out of 25 Member Associations), Oceania (3 out of 8), and Pan America (17 out of 30) "And with a record number of almost 300,000 fans casting their votes, fan participation in the FIH Hockey Stars Awards has been exceptional," the FIH said. Following Belgium's objection, FIH issued a statement to clarify its stand and promised a review if necessary. "As one can see, all winning athletes have topped the standings in each of the three voting groups...As always FIH will conduct a review of the FIH Hockey Star Awards and make adjustments wherever deemed necessary. In particular, we will focus on establishing why a number of national associations failed to vote," it said. The nominations from Belgium (men) and the Netherlands (women), who were not only crowned Olympic Champions but also won the 2020-21 FIH Hockey Pro League, finished behind the Indians once the votes were counted. Belgium duo of Alexander Hendrickx and Arthur van Doren were voted second and third best players respectively among men, with Vincent Vanasch (Belgium) named second best goalkeeper and Shane McLeod of New Zealand second best coach. Among women, Eva de Goede and Frederique Matla of the Netherlands clinched the respective second and third places in the Player of the Year awards while Alyson Annan of Australia finished second for the FIH Coach of the Year Award. Great Britain goalkeeper Maddie Hinch, rising star Fiona Crackles and coach Mark Hager of Australia all were third in their respective categories. With the FIH Hockey Stars Awards skipped in 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 global health pandemic on the international calendar, this year's awards covered the period from January 2020 through to the conclusion of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, the FIH said. "The voting process started on 23 August and concluded on 15 September 2021. Votes from National Associations - represented by their respective national captains and coaches - counted for 50 pe cent of the overall result, while fans and players (25 per cent) as well as media (25 per cent) made the other half of the votes," it added. Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam congratulated the winners. "This is a great moment for Indian hockey as all our Indian nominees for the FIH Stars Awards have been announced winners. "After the historic performances in Tokyo by both Indian Men and Women's Hockey teams, the support from Indian fans from across the globe has been overwhelming," he said.

Hockey: India sweep FIH annual awards; men’s Olympic champion Belgium says 'this is not normal'

India on Tuesday pulled out of next year's Birmingham Commonwealth Games' hockey competition, citing COVID-19 concerns and UK's discriminatory quarantine rules for travellers from the country, a day after England's withdrawal from the junior men's World Cup in Bhubaneswar over similar reasons.

Hockey India President Gyanandro Ningombam communicated the federation's decision to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra in a letter.

Hockey India reasoned that there is only a 32-day window available between the Birmingham Games (July 28-August 8) and the Hangzhou Asian Games (September 10-25).

HI said it can't risk sending its players to the UK, which has been one of the worst affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

"You will appreciate that the Asian games is the Continental qualification event for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and keeping the priority of the Asian Games in mind, Hockey India can not risk any members of the Indian teams contracting COVID-19 during the Commonwealth Games," Ningombam wrote.

"Therefore, Hockey India will not be sending its men and women teams to Commonwealth Games 2022 and are informing you in advance to kindly notify the Organisers to identify reserve teams."

The UK recently refused to recognise India's COVID-19 vaccination certificates and imposed a 10-day hard quarantine on travellers from the country even if they were fully vaccinated.

The discrimination was prominently mentioned in Ningombam's letter to the IOA President, who has issued instructions for co-ordination with the sport's world governing body FIH for the details of the reserve teams. Batra heads the FIH as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-junior-world-championship-shooter-aishwary-tomar-smashes-world-record-claims-gold-418336">ISSF Junior World Championship: Shooter Aishwary Tomar smashes world record, claims gold</a>

"Such discriminatory restrictions were not imposed on Indian athletes and officials during the recent Tokyo Olympic Games and this 10-day quarantine requirement for vaccinated sports persons will affect their performance," Ningombam stated.

"We feel these restrictions are biased against India and term it as very unfortunate," he said.

HI's move comes a day after England pulled out of the junior World Cup to be held in Bhubaneswar next month, citing a number of COVID-related concerns and taking "note" of the Indian government's mandatory 10-day quarantine protocol for all UK nationals.

India imposed reciprocal curbs on all British nationals arriving in the country after UK's steadfast refusal to reconsider its restrictions.

Under India's new norms, all British nationals arriving here from the UK, irrespective of their vaccination status, will have to produce the result of the RT-PCR test done within 72 hours before travel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-table-tennis-championships-india-end-campaign-with-three-bronze-medals-418238">Asian Table Tennis Championships: India end campaign with three bronze medals</a>

They will also have to undertake two more RT-PCR tests, one on their arrival at the airport in India and the second one on Day 8 after arrival.

Both the Indian men's and women's teams reached the medal rounds in the 2018 Gold Coast CWG but lost to England in the bronze play-offs. The men's team was beaten 1-2 while the women team lost 0-6 to England.

The Birmingham CWG would have been first big event for both the teams after their inspirational performances at the Tokyo Games, where the men's team won a bronze while the women finished a creditable fourth.

India on Tuesday pulled out of next year's Birmingham Commonwealth Games' hockey competition, citing COVID-19 concerns and UK's discriminatory quarantine rules for travellers from the country, a day after England's withdrawal from the junior men's World Cup in Bhubaneswar over similar reasons.

India on Tuesday pulled out of next year's Birmingham Commonwealth Games' hockey competition, citing COVID-19 concerns and UK's discriminatory quarantine rules for travellers from the country, a day after England's withdrawal from the junior men's World Cup in Bhubaneswar over similar reasons. Hockey India President Gyanandro Ningombam communicated the federation's decision to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra in a letter. Hockey India reasoned that there is only a 32-day window available between the Birmingham Games (July 28-August 8) and the Hangzhou Asian Games (September 10-25). HI said it can't risk sending its players to the UK, which has been one of the worst affected by the coronavirus pandemic. "You will appreciate that the Asian games is the Continental qualification event for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and keeping the priority of the Asian Games in mind, Hockey India can not risk any members of the Indian teams contracting COVID-19 during the Commonwealth Games," Ningombam wrote. "Therefore, Hockey India will not be sending its men and women teams to Commonwealth Games 2022 and are informing you in advance to kindly notify the Organisers to identify reserve teams." The UK recently refused to recognise India's COVID-19 vaccination certificates and imposed a 10-day hard quarantine on travellers from the country even if they were fully vaccinated. The discrimination was prominently mentioned in Ningombam's letter to the IOA President, who has issued instructions for co-ordination with the sport's world governing body FIH for the details of the reserve teams. Batra heads the FIH as well. ALSO READ: ISSF Junior World Championship: Shooter Aishwary Tomar smashes world record, claims gold "Such discriminatory restrictions were not imposed on Indian athletes and officials during the recent Tokyo Olympic Games and this 10-day quarantine requirement for vaccinated sports persons will affect their performance," Ningombam stated. "We feel these restrictions are biased against India and term it as very unfortunate," he said. HI's move comes a day after England pulled out of the junior World Cup to be held in Bhubaneswar next month, citing a number of COVID-related concerns and taking "note" of the Indian government's mandatory 10-day quarantine protocol for all UK nationals. India imposed reciprocal curbs on all British nationals arriving in the country after UK's steadfast refusal to reconsider its restrictions. Under India's new norms, all British nationals arriving here from the UK, irrespective of their vaccination status, will have to produce the result of the RT-PCR test done within 72 hours before travel. ALSO READ: Asian Table Tennis Championships: India end campaign with three bronze medals They will also have to undertake two more RT-PCR tests, one on their arrival at the airport in India and the second one on Day 8 after arrival. Both the Indian men's and women's teams reached the medal rounds in the 2018 Gold Coast CWG but lost to England in the bronze play-offs. The men's team was beaten 1-2 while the women team lost 0-6 to England. The Birmingham CWG would have been first big event for both the teams after their inspirational performances at the Tokyo Games, where the men's team won a bronze while the women finished a creditable fourth.

Hockey India withdraws from 2022 Birmingham CWG; cites Covid concerns, discriminatory quarantine rules

Hockey India on Saturday named the 30-member core probable group for the senior men`s national coaching camp to begin in SAI Bengaluru on October 4. After a successful campaign at the Tokyo Olympic Games where India clinched a historic Bronze Medal and ended the 41-year wait, the Indian Men`s Core Group will begin the new Olympic cycle with an intent to improve upon this performance at Paris 2024.

The core grouped called up for the National Coaching camp includes a mix of young and experienced players including PR Sreejesh, Krishan Bahadur Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Harmanpreet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Surender Kumar, Gurinder Singh, Amit Rohidas, Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Simranjeet Singh, Akashdeep Singh, Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Gursahibjit Singh, Shamsher Singh, Varun Kumar, Jarmanpreet Singh, Dipsan Tirkey, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Jaskaran Singh, Rajkumar Pal, Gurjant Singh, Sumit, Shilanand Lakra, Suman Beck, Mandeep Mor, Ashis Kumar Topno.

Speaking about the upcoming national coaching camp, chief coach Graham Reid said, "The players are coming off a long and well-deserved break. I believe they will be excited to be back in the National Camp and refocus on our goals for next year. We will be going through our performance in the Olympics both from the perspective of individual performances and as a team," expressed Reid. He further emphasized that the players must now leave behind the success of Tokyo and start fresh ahead of a hectic season in 2022. "Experiencing success in the Olympics is great but now I want the players to be mentally and physically ready for a hectic season in 2022 with some very important tournaments starting from the FIH Hockey Pro League in February. This camp will be more about strength and conditioning and we will look at making a slow start," he added.

Hockey India on Saturday named the 30-member core probable group for the senior men`s national coaching camp to begin in SAI Bengaluru on October 4. After a successful campaign at the Tokyo Olympic Games where India clinched a historic Bronze Medal and ended the 41-year wait, the Indian Men`s Core Group will begin the new Olympic cycle with an intent to improve upon this performance at Paris 2024.

Hockey India on Saturday named the 30-member core probable group for the senior men`s national coaching camp to begin in SAI Bengaluru on October 4. After a successful campaign at the Tokyo Olympic Games where India clinched a historic Bronze Medal and ended the 41-year wait, the Indian Men`s Core Group will begin the new Olympic cycle with an intent to improve upon this performance at Paris 2024. The core grouped called up for the National Coaching camp includes a mix of young and experienced players including PR Sreejesh, Krishan Bahadur Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Harmanpreet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Surender Kumar, Gurinder Singh, Amit Rohidas, Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Simranjeet Singh, Akashdeep Singh, Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Gursahibjit Singh, Shamsher Singh, Varun Kumar, Jarmanpreet Singh, Dipsan Tirkey, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Jaskaran Singh, Rajkumar Pal, Gurjant Singh, Sumit, Shilanand Lakra, Suman Beck, Mandeep Mor, Ashis Kumar Topno. Speaking about the upcoming national coaching camp, chief coach Graham Reid said, "The players are coming off a long and well-deserved break. I believe they will be excited to be back in the National Camp and refocus on our goals for next year. We will be going through our performance in the Olympics both from the perspective of individual performances and as a team," expressed Reid. He further emphasized that the players must now leave behind the success of Tokyo and start fresh ahead of a hectic season in 2022. "Experiencing success in the Olympics is great but now I want the players to be mentally and physically ready for a hectic season in 2022 with some very important tournaments starting from the FIH Hockey Pro League in February. This camp will be more about strength and conditioning and we will look at making a slow start," he added.

Hockey India name 30-member group for senior men's national camp

India hockey player Rupinder Pal Singh has decided to hang his boots and make way for the young brigade. Having been a part of India`s historic journey to a bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics, Rupinder said he is happy and content after winning a medal in the showpiece event. Taking to Twitter, Rupinder made the announcement on Thursday. "I would like to inform you about my decision to retire from the Indian hockey team. The past couple of months have undoubtedly been the best days of my life. Standing on the podium in Tokyo along with my teammates with whom I have shared some of the most incredible experiences of my life was a feeling I will cherish forever. I believe it is time for me to make way for young and talented players to experience every great joy I have felt in these last 13 years of representing India. I have had the honour of wearing the India jersey in 223 matches and each of these matches are special for I had the privilege of playing for this great sport-loving nation," he wrote.

Rupinder also thanked his fans, Hockey India, his coaches and friends who played a big role in his journey. It`s been over a month since the Indian men`s hockey team won the historic bronze medal by beating Germany 5-4 at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Skipper Manpreet Singh believes now it`s time to stop basking in the glory of the achievement in Tokyo and it`s time to reset their focus and start planning for a busy 2022 calendar. "I think these past few weeks have been great with people showering us with all their love and praises. Now, I feel it`s time we rest our bodies and mind. We have enjoyed all the felicitations, the honour and accolades we received has been overwhelming but now we must start thinking about how to better ourselves for the 2022 calendar," stated the captain in an official Hockey India release earlier in the month. With the all-important Asian Games scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China from September 10-25, 2022, the team`s top priority will be to qualify for the Paris Olympics by winning the gold at Asian Games.

India hockey player Rupinder Pal Singh has decided to hang his boots and make way for the young brigade. Having been a part of India`s historic journey to a bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics, Rupinder said he is happy and content after winning a medal in the showpiece event.

India hockey player Rupinder Pal Singh has decided to hang his boots and make way for the young brigade. Having been a part of India`s historic journey to a bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics, Rupinder said he is happy and content after winning a medal in the showpiece event. Taking to Twitter, Rupinder made the announcement on Thursday. "I would like to inform you about my decision to retire from the Indian hockey team. The past couple of months have undoubtedly been the best days of my life. Standing on the podium in Tokyo along with my teammates with whom I have shared some of the most incredible experiences of my life was a feeling I will cherish forever. I believe it is time for me to make way for young and talented players to experience every great joy I have felt in these last 13 years of representing India. I have had the honour of wearing the India jersey in 223 matches and each of these matches are special for I had the privilege of playing for this great sport-loving nation," he wrote. Rupinder also thanked his fans, Hockey India, his coaches and friends who played a big role in his journey. It`s been over a month since the Indian men`s hockey team won the historic bronze medal by beating Germany 5-4 at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Skipper Manpreet Singh believes now it`s time to stop basking in the glory of the achievement in Tokyo and it`s time to reset their focus and start planning for a busy 2022 calendar. "I think these past few weeks have been great with people showering us with all their love and praises. Now, I feel it`s time we rest our bodies and mind. We have enjoyed all the felicitations, the honour and accolades we received has been overwhelming but now we must start thinking about how to better ourselves for the 2022 calendar," stated the captain in an official Hockey India release earlier in the month. With the all-important Asian Games scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China from September 10-25, 2022, the team`s top priority will be to qualify for the Paris Olympics by winning the gold at Asian Games.

India hockey star Rupinder Pal Singh hangs his boots after resounding success at Tokyo 2020

Hockey India continued to celebrate the 73rd Olympic Day on Thursday with its member units carrying out more activities showcasing Olympic values among the young children, players, coaches and administrative staff. The activities were organised keeping in mind the social distancing and safety guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Hockey India Member Units will be conducting activities and continuing the celebrations for Olympic Day through the week of June 21, 2021.

The theme for this year's Olympic Day celebrations is the Year of the Youth and keeping that in mind, Hockey India’s Member Units marked this special Olympic Day in the year of Olympics with activities that spread the message of spirit of sportsmanship and unity through hockey-focused activities including quizzes, drawing competitions and essay writing competitions on Olympic Day and Olympic values, along with spreading awareness on the importance of healthy living, staying indoors and staying fit.

Through the activities conducted for Olympic Day, it was Hockey India's ambition to strengthen the link that children, young people and adults have with the sport, and through these activities it brought together people from different walks of life, different age groups, without any gender and physical biases, to provide an opportunity to reminisce their favourite Olympic moments and promote the Olympic values.

Olympic Day was first introduced in 1948 to commemorate the birth of the modern Olympic Games on June 23, 1894 at the Sorbonne in Paris. The goal was to promote participation in sport across the globe regardless of age, gender or athletic ability. Marking the 73rd Olympic Day, Hockey India through various activities endorsed International Olympic Committee's campaign and themes of #StrongerTogether as we inch closer to the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.&nbsp;

<img alt="Hockey gUjarat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec4688cc-760c-4c05-bf50-d0d6e2019f94" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hockey%20Gujarat.jpg" />

The hockey community from across the country was united in sending their celebrations to Hockey India in the form of pictures and videos. Among many such activities organised by the various Member Units on Thursday, Hockey Gujarat organised a drawing competition for children, while Hockey Maharashtra conducted various activities like art and craft competition, wellness &amp; hockey skills videos.

Hockey Chandigarh honoured Olympians on the occasion of Olympic Day along with conducting an exhibition hockey match to promote the sport of Hockey, meanwhile, Hockey Madhya Pradesh carried out activities of tree plantation and displayed Hockey skills &amp; drills videos. SDT Hockey Nilgiris Academy organised a drawing activity, while Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy conducted online competitions for art/craft, articles and skill videos for Olympic Day. Canara Bank made a special video with Olympians who sent their wishes for the Indian Hockey teams for their upcoming Tokyo Olympic campaign.

Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy organised a practice hockey match to raise awareness about the Olympic Day, while Citizen Hockey XI conducted a quiz competition on Olympians and Olympic Sports to mark the 73rd Olympic Day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-india-celebrates-olympic-day-2021-by-bringing-hockey-community-together-393448" hreflang="en">Hockey India celebrates Olympic Day 2021 by bringing hockey community together</a>

Hockey Bengal organised online contests on drawing skill with stick and ball and essay writing, while Hockey Bihar carried out online quiz competitions and hockey skills coaching clinics.&nbsp;

Hockey Himachal celebrated the Olympic Day by organising an exhibition match, meanwhile Uttar Pradesh Hockey conducted essay writing and poster making competitions. Hockey Jharkhand celebrated the Olympic Day with utmost enthusiasm and involved themselves in drawing and essay writing competitions, tree plantation and showcased some Hockey skills.

Speaking on the occasion, Gyanendro Ningombam, President, Hockey India said, "It has been absolutely brilliant to see the Member Units conduct various activities for the celebration of Olympic Day during the course of one week. The activities will certainly help one and all to understand the importance of Olympic Day. Activities such as essay writing and drawing competitions certainly help raise awareness about the Olympics and it has been great to see adults and children enjoy each and every activity that has taken place. The Olympic Day is a very special day for all of us and it's been fantastic to see the way it's being celebrated."

<h2>Hockey India Member Units that organised Olympic Day events on Thursday, June 24, 2021:&nbsp;</h2>

1. Hockey Gujarat 
2. Hockey Maharashtra 
3. Hockey Chandigarh 
4. Hockey Madhya Pradesh 
5. Canara Bank 
6. SDT Hockey Nilgiris Academy 
7. Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy 
8. Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 
9. Citizen Hockey XI 
10. Hockey Bengal 
11. Hockey Bihar 
12. Hockey Himachal 
13. Hockey Jharkhand 
14. Uttar Pradesh Hockey

Hockey India continued to celebrate the 73rd Olympic Day on Thursday with its member units carrying out more activities showcasing Olympic values among the young children, players, coaches and administrative staff.

Hockey India continued to celebrate the 73rd Olympic Day on Thursday with its member units carrying out more activities showcasing Olympic values among the young children, players, coaches and administrative staff. The activities were organised keeping in mind the social distancing and safety guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Hockey India Member Units will be conducting activities and continuing the celebrations for Olympic Day through the week of June 21, 2021. The theme for this year's Olympic Day celebrations is the Year of the Youth and keeping that in mind, Hockey India’s Member Units marked this special Olympic Day in the year of Olympics with activities that spread the message of spirit of sportsmanship and unity through hockey-focused activities including quizzes, drawing competitions and essay writing competitions on Olympic Day and Olympic values, along with spreading awareness on the importance of healthy living, staying indoors and staying fit. Through the activities conducted for Olympic Day, it was Hockey India's ambition to strengthen the link that children, young people and adults have with the sport, and through these activities it brought together people from different walks of life, different age groups, without any gender and physical biases, to provide an opportunity to reminisce their favourite Olympic moments and promote the Olympic values. Olympic Day was first introduced in 1948 to commemorate the birth of the modern Olympic Games on June 23, 1894 at the Sorbonne in Paris. The goal was to promote participation in sport across the globe regardless of age, gender or athletic ability. Marking the 73rd Olympic Day, Hockey India through various activities endorsed International Olympic Committee's campaign and themes of #StrongerTogether as we inch closer to the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020. The hockey community from across the country was united in sending their celebrations to Hockey India in the form of pictures and videos. Among many such activities organised by the various Member Units on Thursday, Hockey Gujarat organised a drawing competition for children, while Hockey Maharashtra conducted various activities like art and craft competition, wellness & hockey skills videos. Hockey Chandigarh honoured Olympians on the occasion of Olympic Day along with conducting an exhibition hockey match to promote the sport of Hockey, meanwhile, Hockey Madhya Pradesh carried out activities of tree plantation and displayed Hockey skills & drills videos. SDT Hockey Nilgiris Academy organised a drawing activity, while Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy conducted online competitions for art/craft, articles and skill videos for Olympic Day. Canara Bank made a special video with Olympians who sent their wishes for the Indian Hockey teams for their upcoming Tokyo Olympic campaign. Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy organised a practice hockey match to raise awareness about the Olympic Day, while Citizen Hockey XI conducted a quiz competition on Olympians and Olympic Sports to mark the 73rd Olympic Day. ALSO READ: Hockey India celebrates Olympic Day 2021 by bringing hockey community together Hockey Bengal organised online contests on drawing skill with stick and ball and essay writing, while Hockey Bihar carried out online quiz competitions and hockey skills coaching clinics. Hockey Himachal celebrated the Olympic Day by organising an exhibition match, meanwhile Uttar Pradesh Hockey conducted essay writing and poster making competitions. Hockey Jharkhand celebrated the Olympic Day with utmost enthusiasm and involved themselves in drawing and essay writing competitions, tree plantation and showcased some Hockey skills. Speaking on the occasion, Gyanendro Ningombam, President, Hockey India said, "It has been absolutely brilliant to see the Member Units conduct various activities for the celebration of Olympic Day during the course of one week. The activities will certainly help one and all to understand the importance of Olympic Day. Activities such as essay writing and drawing competitions certainly help raise awareness about the Olympics and it has been great to see adults and children enjoy each and every activity that has taken place. The Olympic Day is a very special day for all of us and it's been fantastic to see the way it's being celebrated." Hockey India Member Units that organised Olympic Day events on Thursday, June 24, 2021: 1. Hockey Gujarat 2. Hockey Maharashtra 3. Hockey Chandigarh 4. Hockey Madhya Pradesh 5. Canara Bank 6. SDT Hockey Nilgiris Academy 7. Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy 8. Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 9. Citizen Hockey XI 10. Hockey Bengal 11. Hockey Bihar 12. Hockey Himachal 13. Hockey Jharkhand 14. Uttar Pradesh Hockey

Hockey India continues the celebrations for the 73rd Olympic Day

Hockey India celebrated the 73rd Olympic Day on Wednesday with its Member Units showcasing Olympic values among the young children, players, coaches and administrative staff, by taking part in various activities while respecting the social distancing and safety guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Hockey India Member Units will be conducting activities and continuing the celebrations for Olympic Day through the week of June 21, 2021.

The theme for this year's Olympic Day celebrations is the Year of the Youth and keeping that in mind, Hockey India’s Member Units marked this special Olympic Day in the year of Olympics with activities that spread the message of spirit of sportsmanship and unity through hockey-focused activities including quizzes, drawing competitions and essay writing competitions on Olympic Day and Olympic values, along with spreading awareness on the importance of healthy living, staying indoors and staying fit.

Through the activities conducted on Olympic Day, it was Hockey India's ambition to strengthen the link that children, young people and adults have with the sport, and through these activities it brought together people from different walks of life, different age groups, without any gender and physical biases, to provide an opportunity to reminisce their favourite Olympic moments and promote the Olympic values.

Olympic Day was first introduced in 1948 to commemorate the birth of the modern Olympic Games on June 23, 1894 at the Sorbonne in Paris. The goal was to promote participation in sport across the globe regardless of age, gender or athletic ability. Marking the 73rd Olympic Day, Hockey India through various activities endorsed International Olympic Committee's campaign and themes of #StrongerTogether as we inch closer to the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.&nbsp;

The hockey community from across the country was united in sending their celebrations to Hockey India in the form of pictures and videos. Among many such activities organised by the various Member Units, Assam Hockey celebrated the day by organising a morning jogging session and an art &amp; craft programme with their members, while Chhattisgarh Hockey and Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre organized essay-writing competitions along with a webinar discussion on India's hopes at the Tokyo Olympics.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pv-sindhu-to-wion-no-time-to-tweak-routine-to-skip-tokyo-olympics-3-day-isolation-rule-393437" hreflang="en">PV Sindhu to WION: No time to tweak routine to skip Tokyo Olympics' 3-day isolation rule</a>

Goans Hockey displayed their Hockey skills and fitness, while Hockey Punjab, Hockey Rajasthan, ITBP Central Hockey Team, Dhyan Chand Hockey Academy and Hockey Uttarakhand organized drawing competitions, wellness videos, hockey drills videos to commemorate the celebrations. Alongside conducting drawing, quiz and essay-writing competitions, Telangana Hockey also felicitated Coaches and National players, while Hockey Andhra Pradesh organized a special Olympic run along with providing monetary help to the members of the families who lost their lives due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Hockey Jammu and Kashmir, flagged off a five-kilometre run where Hockey players of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Hockey Club took part, keeping in mind all Covid SOPs during the event, meanwhile, Tripura Hockey donated essential food items to an old-age home in Agartala as part of their celebrations for this very special Olympic Day.&nbsp;

Nothing could deter Olympian Vivek Singh Hockey Academy from celebrating Olympic Day amidst heavy rains in Varanasi, as the eager kids helped in preparing the grounds to play a friendly match, meanwhile, Mata Sahib Kaur Hockey Academy Jarkhar - Ludhiana organised a special Olympic Day programme with its members at the Jarkhar Stadium.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-tokyo-2020-organisers-ban-alcohol-defend-allowing-spectators-393277" hreflang="en">Olympics-Tokyo 2020 organisers ban alcohol, defend allowing spectators</a>

HIM Academy celebrated the Olympic Day by conducting a yoga session with its members, while Mumbai Schools Sports Association carried out various artistic activities and collated workout-from-home videos. Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy celebrated Olympic Day by organising various art competitions among more than 500 athletes. Manipur Hockey held a special Olympic Day celebratory session which included some cake cutting sessions and also a one week fitness challenge was conducted.

<img alt="HI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="277f694f-35bc-4c39-ab1a-48c5ce66a304" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Chhattisgarh%20Hockey.jpg" />

Hockey Mizoram rounded off the day with celebrations by showcasing a video with best wishes to all its members on the occasion of Olympic Day and especially for the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.

Speaking on the occasion, Gyanendro Ningombam, President, Hockey India said, "It's always fantastic to see the way the Hockey India Member Units come together and celebrate the Olympic Day with several exciting activities every year. Olympic Day is a day on which we should celebrate the power of sports and the Member Units through activities such as jogging sessions and art &amp; craft programmes ensure that all adults and children enjoy the Olympic Day in the best possible way. We live in unprecedented times at the moment, and it was also wonderful to know that all activities were carried out while keeping the social distancing precautions in mind. On behalf of Hockey India, I send my warmest regards to the Hockey India Member Units for conducting brilliant activities on this Olympic Day."

<h2>Hockey India Member Units that organised Olympic Day events on Wednesday, June 23, 2021:&nbsp;</h2>

1. Assam Hockey&nbsp; 
2. Chhattisgarh Hockey 
3. Goans Hockey 
4. Hockey Punjab 
5. Hockey Rajasthan 
6. Telangana Hockey 
7. Hockey Andhra Pradesh 
8. Hockey Jammu &amp; Kashmir 
9. Tripura Hockey 
10. Hockey Uttarakhand 
11. I.T.B.P. Central Hockey Team 
12. Olympian Vivek Singh Hockey Academy 
13. Mata Sahib Kaur Hockey Academy Jarkhar – Ludhiana 
14. Dhyan Chand Hockey Academy 
15. Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre 
16. HIM Academy 
17. Mumbai Schools Sports Association 
18. Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy 
19. Manipur Hockey 
20. Hockey Mizoram

Hockey India celebrated the 73rd Olympic Day on Wednesday with its Member Units showcasing Olympic values among the young children, players, coaches and administrative staff, by taking part in various activities while respecting the social distancing and safety guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Hockey India celebrated the 73rd Olympic Day on Wednesday with its Member Units showcasing Olympic values among the young children, players, coaches and administrative staff, by taking part in various activities while respecting the social distancing and safety guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Hockey India Member Units will be conducting activities and continuing the celebrations for Olympic Day through the week of June 21, 2021. The theme for this year's Olympic Day celebrations is the Year of the Youth and keeping that in mind, Hockey India’s Member Units marked this special Olympic Day in the year of Olympics with activities that spread the message of spirit of sportsmanship and unity through hockey-focused activities including quizzes, drawing competitions and essay writing competitions on Olympic Day and Olympic values, along with spreading awareness on the importance of healthy living, staying indoors and staying fit. Through the activities conducted on Olympic Day, it was Hockey India's ambition to strengthen the link that children, young people and adults have with the sport, and through these activities it brought together people from different walks of life, different age groups, without any gender and physical biases, to provide an opportunity to reminisce their favourite Olympic moments and promote the Olympic values. Olympic Day was first introduced in 1948 to commemorate the birth of the modern Olympic Games on June 23, 1894 at the Sorbonne in Paris. The goal was to promote participation in sport across the globe regardless of age, gender or athletic ability. Marking the 73rd Olympic Day, Hockey India through various activities endorsed International Olympic Committee's campaign and themes of #StrongerTogether as we inch closer to the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020. The hockey community from across the country was united in sending their celebrations to Hockey India in the form of pictures and videos. Among many such activities organised by the various Member Units, Assam Hockey celebrated the day by organising a morning jogging session and an art & craft programme with their members, while Chhattisgarh Hockey and Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre organized essay-writing competitions along with a webinar discussion on India's hopes at the Tokyo Olympics. ALSO READ: PV Sindhu to WION: No time to tweak routine to skip Tokyo Olympics' 3-day isolation rule Goans Hockey displayed their Hockey skills and fitness, while Hockey Punjab, Hockey Rajasthan, ITBP Central Hockey Team, Dhyan Chand Hockey Academy and Hockey Uttarakhand organized drawing competitions, wellness videos, hockey drills videos to commemorate the celebrations. Alongside conducting drawing, quiz and essay-writing competitions, Telangana Hockey also felicitated Coaches and National players, while Hockey Andhra Pradesh organized a special Olympic run along with providing monetary help to the members of the families who lost their lives due to COVID-19 pandemic. Hockey Jammu and Kashmir, flagged off a five-kilometre run where Hockey players of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Hockey Club took part, keeping in mind all Covid SOPs during the event, meanwhile, Tripura Hockey donated essential food items to an old-age home in Agartala as part of their celebrations for this very special Olympic Day. Nothing could deter Olympian Vivek Singh Hockey Academy from celebrating Olympic Day amidst heavy rains in Varanasi, as the eager kids helped in preparing the grounds to play a friendly match, meanwhile, Mata Sahib Kaur Hockey Academy Jarkhar - Ludhiana organised a special Olympic Day programme with its members at the Jarkhar Stadium. ALSO READ: Olympics-Tokyo 2020 organisers ban alcohol, defend allowing spectators HIM Academy celebrated the Olympic Day by conducting a yoga session with its members, while Mumbai Schools Sports Association carried out various artistic activities and collated workout-from-home videos. Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy celebrated Olympic Day by organising various art competitions among more than 500 athletes. Manipur Hockey held a special Olympic Day celebratory session which included some cake cutting sessions and also a one week fitness challenge was conducted. Hockey Mizoram rounded off the day with celebrations by showcasing a video with best wishes to all its members on the occasion of Olympic Day and especially for the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games 2020. Speaking on the occasion, Gyanendro Ningombam, President, Hockey India said, "It's always fantastic to see the way the Hockey India Member Units come together and celebrate the Olympic Day with several exciting activities every year. Olympic Day is a day on which we should celebrate the power of sports and the Member Units through activities such as jogging sessions and art & craft programmes ensure that all adults and children enjoy the Olympic Day in the best possible way. We live in unprecedented times at the moment, and it was also wonderful to know that all activities were carried out while keeping the social distancing precautions in mind. On behalf of Hockey India, I send my warmest regards to the Hockey India Member Units for conducting brilliant activities on this Olympic Day." Hockey India Member Units that organised Olympic Day events on Wednesday, June 23, 2021: 1. Assam Hockey 2. Chhattisgarh Hockey 3. Goans Hockey 4. Hockey Punjab 5. Hockey Rajasthan 6. Telangana Hockey 7. Hockey Andhra Pradesh 8. Hockey Jammu & Kashmir 9. Tripura Hockey 10. Hockey Uttarakhand 11. I.T.B.P. Central Hockey Team 12. Olympian Vivek Singh Hockey Academy 13. Mata Sahib Kaur Hockey Academy Jarkhar – Ludhiana 14. Dhyan Chand Hockey Academy 15. Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre 16. HIM Academy 17. Mumbai Schools Sports Association 18. Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy 19. Manipur Hockey 20. Hockey Mizoram

Hockey India celebrates Olympic Day 2021 by bringing hockey community together

With final preparations underway for the much-awaited Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, Hockey India on Wednesday announced the final list of players selected to represent the Indian Women’s Hockey Team at the summer showdown in Tokyo. The 16-member squad strikes the perfect balance between continuity from the Rio Olympics 2016, and adopting a fresh approach for Tokyo. Eight experienced veterans have been named in the squad, while eight new players have been handed the chance to make their Olympic debut for Team India.&nbsp;

Speaking on the team selection, Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne said, “This team has worked very hard over the last few years and has made progress consistently. There’s a good mix of experienced players and new talent, which is excellent. We look forward to taking on the best in the world in Tokyo. This is a team with a lot of potential and drive which we hope to channelise to our best performance yet.”

Congratulating the selected squad, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Over the past few years, leading up to this edition of the Olympics, the women’s team has worked very hard to achieve their current form. I am confident that this team will give a tough competition to any opponent. I wish them all the very best for their preparation and performance at the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-japan-to-ease-state-of-emergency-focus-on-games-spectators-392069" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Japan to ease state of emergency, focus on Games spectators</a>

The final squad includes eight stalwarts in Rani, Savita, Deep Grace Ekka, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Monika, Nikki Pradhan, Navjot Kaur and Vandana Katariya; who have had the experience of representing India at the historic appearance of the Indian women’s team at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games after a gap of 36 years. These eight players have amassed a mammoth total of 1,492 caps between them for Team India and will be tasked with leading the charge for Team India in their quest for Olympic glory.

This will be the Indian Women's Hockey team's third appearance at the Olympic Games and their second consecutive outing, with previous appearances coming in 1980 and 2016. The Indian Women's Hockey team have seen a steady rise over the past few years, clinching Olympic qualification for a historic second consecutive occasion on the back of their consistent performances in qualifying events. Since Rio 2016, the team has experienced the highs of winning the 2016 Asian Champions Trophy, 2017 Asia Cup, the Silver medal at the 2018 Asian Games and making it to the Quarter Finals of the 2018 Women’s World Cup for the first time in history.

The eight Olympic debutants include drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur, Udita, Nisha, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami - who is the first player hailing from Mizoram in the team and Salima Tete - who led the Indian team at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games at Buenos Aires to a silver medal performance, also joins the team destined for Tokyo.

The Women’s Team, which made history in Rio in 2016 after making an Olympic appearance after a 36-year-long wait, will now be looking to make its mark in the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020. This team took the disconcerting news of the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics in its stride and used the additional year to solidify their preparation for the Summer Games, as they bid to become the first Indian Women’s Hockey team to win an Olympic medal. The team has left no stone unturned in their preparation for the year’s showpiece event, with challenging tours to Germany and Argentina in the early part of 2021 proving to be an ideal preparation against world class competition. A high intensity National Camp following the international tours has put the team in good stead ahead of the Tokyo Olympic Games.

The team continues preparations at the ongoing camp at SAI Centre Bengaluru with the games taking place from 23rd July to 6th August in Tokyo.

Goalkeepers&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Savita&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Defenders

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deep Grace Ekka&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nikki Pradhan&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gurjit Kaur

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Udita&nbsp;

Midfielders

6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nisha &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Neha&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Monika&nbsp;

10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Navjot Kaur

11.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Salima Tete

Forwards

12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rani&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Navneet Kaur

14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lalremsiami&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vandana Katariya

16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharmila Devi

With final preparations underway for the much-awaited Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, Hockey India on Wednesday announced the final list of players selected to represent the Indian Women’s Hockey Team at the summer showdown in Tokyo.

With final preparations underway for the much-awaited Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, Hockey India on Wednesday announced the final list of players selected to represent the Indian Women’s Hockey Team at the summer showdown in Tokyo. The 16-member squad strikes the perfect balance between continuity from the Rio Olympics 2016, and adopting a fresh approach for Tokyo. Eight experienced veterans have been named in the squad, while eight new players have been handed the chance to make their Olympic debut for Team India. Speaking on the team selection, Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne said, “This team has worked very hard over the last few years and has made progress consistently. There’s a good mix of experienced players and new talent, which is excellent. We look forward to taking on the best in the world in Tokyo. This is a team with a lot of potential and drive which we hope to channelise to our best performance yet.” Congratulating the selected squad, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Over the past few years, leading up to this edition of the Olympics, the women’s team has worked very hard to achieve their current form. I am confident that this team will give a tough competition to any opponent. I wish them all the very best for their preparation and performance at the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.” ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Japan to ease state of emergency, focus on Games spectators The final squad includes eight stalwarts in Rani, Savita, Deep Grace Ekka, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Monika, Nikki Pradhan, Navjot Kaur and Vandana Katariya; who have had the experience of representing India at the historic appearance of the Indian women’s team at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games after a gap of 36 years. These eight players have amassed a mammoth total of 1,492 caps between them for Team India and will be tasked with leading the charge for Team India in their quest for Olympic glory. This will be the Indian Women's Hockey team's third appearance at the Olympic Games and their second consecutive outing, with previous appearances coming in 1980 and 2016. The Indian Women's Hockey team have seen a steady rise over the past few years, clinching Olympic qualification for a historic second consecutive occasion on the back of their consistent performances in qualifying events. Since Rio 2016, the team has experienced the highs of winning the 2016 Asian Champions Trophy, 2017 Asia Cup, the Silver medal at the 2018 Asian Games and making it to the Quarter Finals of the 2018 Women’s World Cup for the first time in history. The eight Olympic debutants include drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur, Udita, Nisha, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami - who is the first player hailing from Mizoram in the team and Salima Tete - who led the Indian team at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games at Buenos Aires to a silver medal performance, also joins the team destined for Tokyo. The Women’s Team, which made history in Rio in 2016 after making an Olympic appearance after a 36-year-long wait, will now be looking to make its mark in the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020. This team took the disconcerting news of the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics in its stride and used the additional year to solidify their preparation for the Summer Games, as they bid to become the first Indian Women’s Hockey team to win an Olympic medal. The team has left no stone unturned in their preparation for the year’s showpiece event, with challenging tours to Germany and Argentina in the early part of 2021 proving to be an ideal preparation against world class competition. A high intensity National Camp following the international tours has put the team in good stead ahead of the Tokyo Olympic Games. The team continues preparations at the ongoing camp at SAI Centre Bengaluru with the games taking place from 23rd July to 6th August in Tokyo. Goalkeepers 1. Savita Defenders 2. Deep Grace Ekka 3. Nikki Pradhan 4. Gurjit Kaur 5. Udita Midfielders 6. Nisha 7. Neha 8. Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam 9. Monika 10. Navjot Kaur 11. Salima Tete Forwards 12. Rani 13. Navneet Kaur 14. Lalremsiami 15. Vandana Katariya 16. Sharmila Devi

Hockey India announces Women's squad for Tokyo Olympic Games 2020

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday. His victory was basis a largely unanimous decision, Batra secured 63 votes out of 124 to edge past tough opponent in Belgium’s Marc Coudron, the only other candidate for the FIH Presidency at the Congress.

In 2016, Batra who was then an Executive Board Member of FIH as well as the vice-president of the Asian Hockey Federation, became the first Indian to head a global sports governing body when he replaced outgoing FIH President Leandro Negre, for a four-year term. With him being re-elected for the top post, Batra will continue to serve as president of FIH till 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Batra, under his leadership in the first term prioritised the growth of hockey globally also achieved key milestones such as the implementation of the FIH’s global home-and-away league – The FIH Hockey Pro League, launched the FIH Nations Cup, and implemented the FIH Hockey 5s World Cup and Hockey 5s World Tour.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-sun-yangs-career-on-the-line-at-appeal-hearing-386847" hreflang="en">Olympics: Sun Yang's career on the line at appeal hearing</a>

With over two decades of experience in sports administration, Batra led FIH with professional administrative acumen that delivered efficient governance and also created a transparent system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his second term, Batra in his election manifesto committed to continue to work towards increasing the number of hockey playing nations as well as the visibility of hockey. Enhancing financial sustainability, to innovate, and improve the Olympic status of the sport and harmonise the international calendar of events are some of his key agendas paving forward. Batra also endeavours to make hockey more inclusive and use hockey as a catalyst to bring about a positive social change.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his address through a virtual conference during the FIH Congress, Batra said: “My no. 1 priority is to grow the sport globally and to do that we need to constantly evolve with new formats and events. Provide the right kind of training and infrastructure to create a holistic ecosystem that is sustainable. And while we develop and grow our hockey universe it is also essential to increase our visibility and reach. We need to keep up with an extremely dynamic landscape of mediums to reach and engage better with our fans. And equally so reach new audiences we have found in countries across the American and African sub-continents, among others.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-medalist-sushil-kumar-arrested-in-wrestler-murder-case-386760" hreflang="en">Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar arrested in wrestler murder case: Reports</a>

As to the challenges he looks to tackle in his second term as president, Batra said, “We need to enhance our financial stability. A well-developed revenue model from media rights holders and commercial partners is the key to achieve sustainable financial growth. I have seen keen interest in further engagement from Indian commercial partners which I will continue to work with closely to channelise into global events and development initiatives.”

Congratulating Batra on this historic feat, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra in his first term led the hockey fraternity into a new era with innovative formats and tournaments that would further enhance the popularity of the sport particularly among the younger generation. He is a man on a mission to globalise hockey and we congratulate him and wish him the very best as he endeavours to achieve new milestones as President of FIH in his second consecutive term. It is a proud moment for India. We will continue to seek his guidance and learn from his experience to further develop the sport in India.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday.

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday. His victory was basis a largely unanimous decision, Batra secured 63 votes out of 124 to edge past tough opponent in Belgium’s Marc Coudron, the only other candidate for the FIH Presidency at the Congress. In 2016, Batra who was then an Executive Board Member of FIH as well as the vice-president of the Asian Hockey Federation, became the first Indian to head a global sports governing body when he replaced outgoing FIH President Leandro Negre, for a four-year term. With him being re-elected for the top post, Batra will continue to serve as president of FIH till 2024. Batra, under his leadership in the first term prioritised the growth of hockey globally also achieved key milestones such as the implementation of the FIH’s global home-and-away league – The FIH Hockey Pro League, launched the FIH Nations Cup, and implemented the FIH Hockey 5s World Cup and Hockey 5s World Tour. ALSO READ: Olympics: Sun Yang's career on the line at appeal hearing With over two decades of experience in sports administration, Batra led FIH with professional administrative acumen that delivered efficient governance and also created a transparent system. In his second term, Batra in his election manifesto committed to continue to work towards increasing the number of hockey playing nations as well as the visibility of hockey. Enhancing financial sustainability, to innovate, and improve the Olympic status of the sport and harmonise the international calendar of events are some of his key agendas paving forward. Batra also endeavours to make hockey more inclusive and use hockey as a catalyst to bring about a positive social change. In his address through a virtual conference during the FIH Congress, Batra said: “My no. 1 priority is to grow the sport globally and to do that we need to constantly evolve with new formats and events. Provide the right kind of training and infrastructure to create a holistic ecosystem that is sustainable. And while we develop and grow our hockey universe it is also essential to increase our visibility and reach. We need to keep up with an extremely dynamic landscape of mediums to reach and engage better with our fans. And equally so reach new audiences we have found in countries across the American and African sub-continents, among others.” ALSO READ: Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar arrested in wrestler murder case: Reports As to the challenges he looks to tackle in his second term as president, Batra said, “We need to enhance our financial stability. A well-developed revenue model from media rights holders and commercial partners is the key to achieve sustainable financial growth. I have seen keen interest in further engagement from Indian commercial partners which I will continue to work with closely to channelise into global events and development initiatives.” Congratulating Batra on this historic feat, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra in his first term led the hockey fraternity into a new era with innovative formats and tournaments that would further enhance the popularity of the sport particularly among the younger generation. He is a man on a mission to globalise hockey and we congratulate him and wish him the very best as he endeavours to achieve new milestones as President of FIH in his second consecutive term. It is a proud moment for India. We will continue to seek his guidance and learn from his experience to further develop the sport in India.”

Hockey India congratulates Narinder Batra on being elected as president of FIH

Hockey India on Saturday mourned the death of 66-year-old MK Kaushik, who was a part of the Gold Medal-winning side at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. He passed away on Saturday in Delhi due to covid-related complications.

Arjuna Awardee MK Kaushik had coached both Men's and Women's teams during the 1990s and 2000s. Under his coaching, the Indian Men's Hockey Team won the Gold medal in the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games and the Indian Women's Hockey Team won Bronze Medal at the Doha Asian Games in 2006.

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Hockey India griefs the loss of Mr. M. K. Kaushik, Gold Medal winning Olympian and former Coach of the Indian Hockey Team. 🕯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/CQxcTdry3D">pic.twitter.com/CQxcTdry3D</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1391036401244803074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-claims-two-india-olympic-hockey-gold-winners-on-same-day-383849" hreflang="en">Covid claims two India Olympic hockey gold winners on same day</a>

He was also the Assistant Coach of the Indian Men's Hockey Team, who won the Asian Games Gold in 2014. For his contribution to Indian Hockey, he was also bestowed with the Dronacharya Award in 2002.

Expressing Hockey India's condolences to Kaushik's bereaved family, President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "We are extremely saddened to hear the news of his passing and we extend our deepest condolences to Kaushik's family and friends. His contributions to Indian hockey is unmatched and he will be remembered in our hearts forever."

Hockey India on Saturday mourned the death of 66-year-old MK Kaushik, who was a part of the Gold Medal-winning side at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. He passed away on Saturday in Delhi due to covid-related complications.

Hockey India on Saturday mourned the death of 66-year-old MK Kaushik, who was a part of the Gold Medal-winning side at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. He passed away on Saturday in Delhi due to covid-related complications. Arjuna Awardee MK Kaushik had coached both Men's and Women's teams during the 1990s and 2000s. Under his coaching, the Indian Men's Hockey Team won the Gold medal in the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games and the Indian Women's Hockey Team won Bronze Medal at the Doha Asian Games in 2006. Hockey India griefs the loss of Mr. M. K. Kaushik, Gold Medal winning Olympian and former Coach of the Indian Hockey Team. 🕯#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/CQxcTdry3D — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) May 8, 2021 × ALSO READ: Covid claims two India Olympic hockey gold winners on same day He was also the Assistant Coach of the Indian Men's Hockey Team, who won the Asian Games Gold in 2014. For his contribution to Indian Hockey, he was also bestowed with the Dronacharya Award in 2002. Expressing Hockey India's condolences to Kaushik's bereaved family, President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "We are extremely saddened to hear the news of his passing and we extend our deepest condolences to Kaushik's family and friends. His contributions to Indian hockey is unmatched and he will be remembered in our hearts forever."

Hockey India mourns the death of MK Kaushik

The COVID-19 pandemic ended up putting the entire sporting world to a screeching halt. While the year 2020 was supposed to be the busiest year when it comes to sports events, players, coaches and everyone associated with sports were confined to their respective homes as almost the entire world witnessed strict lockdowns to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

As dreams, aspirations and training regimes of sportspersons came to an unprecedented pause due to the pandemic, Naval Tata Hockey Academy in Odisha continued training despite various challenges.&nbsp;

The Odisha centre, which is training girls in hockey, bolstered their facilities in a bid to include both indoor and outdoor training drills as well as technical skills development alongside a special emphasis on mental and nutrition training.&nbsp;

Former Netherlands hockey player, Floris Jan Bovelander helped the Naval Tata Hockey Academy in developing the program with everyone coming together to ensure safety protocols were met during tough times.

When asked how challenging was it to train youngsters and provide them with drills during the lockdown, Bovelander said that the rural areas in Odisha, with ample spaces, helped youngsters do some physical work at home while explaining the importance of physical exercises.

<img alt="Hockey 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8b4ae352-28c1-43ad-9016-8a2e1d1728d2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hockey%202.JPG" />

"It is important for everyone to do some physical work during the day. It not only has an impact on the body of youngsters but also for the elderly it is very important that they keep on doing physical exercises. But for the youngsters, yes definitely, it was a big shock to come into a lockdown. But what we gave the young players some physical exercises and some Hockey drills through videos by the local trainers and in the written form.

"Luckily, the girls and boys live in rural areas in Odisha so they have some space and room to do these exercises and drills at the playgrounds at home. The lockdown has definitely had a lot of impact, but to the players’ benefit, they could do some physical work at home," Bovelander told WION in an exclusive interview.

Bovelander further explained the importance of training effectively rather than spending long hours. Courtesy Bovelander, trainers from the Netherlands joined virtually and spend time with Indian trainers as they shared their knowledge about hockey.&nbsp;

<img alt="Hockey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9582c420-b6a3-414f-a26b-34fa15f9b056" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hockey%201.JPG" />

"For me, Hockey is being together and playing together as well. Hockey is also about tactics, the game plan, and playing as a team. With a better understanding of Indian hockey, we have realized the importance of focusing on the tactics and giving the players more experience in competitive play – which are built into their training programs.

"Along with gameplay and physical fitness sessions – rest and recovery are equally important. As well as developing life skills and education. Indians tend to over train – and frankly, as compared to the Netherlands, the number&nbsp;of hours of training given to young athletes in India is very high. Better play fewer hours but these hours must be highly effective, with good passion and dedication. Good coaching for every level is essential.

"What I really liked is that we could connect to some girls and boys in rural areas via virtual modes of interactions. In the end, we managed to connect our trainers in the Netherlands with the trainers in these areas - which is kind of amazing that we have a connection between Holland and the rural areas of India," Bovelander added.

Bovelander praised infrastructure at the Naval Tata Hockey Academy in Odisha as he went through the challenges faced by everyone associated in the program during the lockdown.&nbsp;

"The good thing about the Naval Tata Hockey Academy is that the infrastructure at Kalinga stadium is designed such that the players can live in a bio bubble. Their hostel is next to the pitch and the have food prepared in the canteen, which is also within the Kalinga stadium and managed by the Tata’s so we can control the hygiene factor. So during the coronavirus period, the female players were allowed to come to Bhubaneshwar, get tested, and live in the bubble and play Hockey.

"The infrastructure in Bhubaneshwar is superb for these players we have selected. Training on the pitch and living in the stadium complex where the World Cup and all the international matches are played is very inspiring for them. You can see it their eyes and it reflects in their body language. Especially when they come here for the first time or when they are selected, they get really inspired and motivated by the infrastructure," the Olympic gold medallist said.

Young players often don't have the necessary knowledge about mental health and nutrition. As COVID-19 pandemic continues to teach humans a revamped way of living, Bovelander feels it was the perfect time to educate young athletes about the importance of nutrition and mental health.

"For our hockey program, we already have an experienced nutritionist and a mental trainer on board. The diet is prescribed by the nutritionist, after taking into consideration the individual needs based on regular health checkups and after observing the performance on the field. The nutritionist also conducts regular workshops with the cooks on the right kind of preparation needed to give required nutrition to the girls. She also conducts workshops for the girls to make them understand the importance of healthy eating habits," Neelam Babardesai – Head of Sports, Tata Trusts told WION.

"Just like we have a strength and conditioning expert - who is generally termed as a Physical trainer - one who is responsible to keep one's body fit and strong, we have a mental trainer who is responsible for the player’s mental wellbeing and improving their mental strength. Just as regular exercises and drills are required to be physically fit, it’s important to regularly do some mental exercises to improve mental strength. This is a practice which we have to inculcate from a young age. It may range from breathing techniques to yoga. We believe that if we regularly work on the mental training of the players to improve their confidence and make them more responsible for themselves, we will be able to extract better performances. A sports psychologist is generally only required at a later elite stage - when the athlete may have to address performance-related issues.

"The mental trainer conducts regular sessions with the girls in our academy to assess the personality of the children, map their fears and apprehensions and help them develop more confidence. Since our current trainer is well versed with the Odia language, it was easier for her to gain the trust and thus connect with them. With tutors helping the children to improve their learning levels, the trainer also counsels them on different career options, preparing them for a future beyond being a player," she added.

<img alt="Hockey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3f6e1da8-0ad3-4d46-a4c3-5ec8734d056f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hockey%203.JPG" />

Setting up a programme and to carry it without a hitch amid a pandemic and lockdown has its own set of challenges.&nbsp;

"First and foremost is to find centres which have the basic infrastructure to run the programme – and then to collaborate with the local bodies to get permission to run the centres there. The centres also needed to be monitored, so the accessibility of these centres also needed to be looked at. The biggest challenge, however, is to find the right kind of coaches, locally, to teach in the programme and also to manage it. However strong a program we have, ultimately the children will improve their quality of play only if they get good coaches," Babardesai said.

"We were very clear that we wanted to give career opportunities to the erstwhile players from the region – who may or may not have played competitively – but really had a passion towards the sport. So having a strong coach development program was imperative to the success of the program. At times the local players did have the basic skills right, but the communication skills required to teach the children was what needed developing. Majority of the tribal people are very shy and soft-spoken, so we really had to work hard with them to get them to open up on the field. We also supported them with travel allowances in case they had to travel long distances to reach the centres," she added.

<img alt="Hockey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ebd5942-f8d0-4df7-8614-02e4371f4fbf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hockey4.JPG" />

When asked about the risks of players picking up injuries after getting less or no physical exercise during the lockdown, Babardesai said that a full-time physiotherapist helped in cutting down the number of injuries by focusing on prevention of niggles.&nbsp;

"The full-time physiotherapist not only helps post injuries but also focusses on prevention of injuries – by ensuring that their bodies are strong and that form of the exercises is correct. Based on physical tests and fitness assessments, an exercise schedule is defined detailing the kind of exercises and the repetitions along with an emphasis on the right amount of recovery. Even during the course of the pandemic, when in-person training was not possible, the children followed their exercise schedules diligently, which helped prepare the bodies correctly to resume the training without any injuries. The right kind of diet was also maintained throughout which also worked in preventing injuries and helped them get back to play," she explained.

The COVID-19 pandemic ended up putting the entire sporting world to a screeching halt. While the year 2020 was supposed to be the busiest year when it comes to sports events, players, coaches and everyone associated with sports were confined to their respective homes as almost the entire world witnessed strict lockdowns to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.

The COVID-19 pandemic ended up putting the entire sporting world to a screeching halt. While the year 2020 was supposed to be the busiest year when it comes to sports events, players, coaches and everyone associated with sports were confined to their respective homes as almost the entire world witnessed strict lockdowns to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. As dreams, aspirations and training regimes of sportspersons came to an unprecedented pause due to the pandemic, Naval Tata Hockey Academy in Odisha continued training despite various challenges. The Odisha centre, which is training girls in hockey, bolstered their facilities in a bid to include both indoor and outdoor training drills as well as technical skills development alongside a special emphasis on mental and nutrition training. Former Netherlands hockey player, Floris Jan Bovelander helped the Naval Tata Hockey Academy in developing the program with everyone coming together to ensure safety protocols were met during tough times. When asked how challenging was it to train youngsters and provide them with drills during the lockdown, Bovelander said that the rural areas in Odisha, with ample spaces, helped youngsters do some physical work at home while explaining the importance of physical exercises. "It is important for everyone to do some physical work during the day. It not only has an impact on the body of youngsters but also for the elderly it is very important that they keep on doing physical exercises. But for the youngsters, yes definitely, it was a big shock to come into a lockdown. But what we gave the young players some physical exercises and some Hockey drills through videos by the local trainers and in the written form. "Luckily, the girls and boys live in rural areas in Odisha so they have some space and room to do these exercises and drills at the playgrounds at home. The lockdown has definitely had a lot of impact, but to the players’ benefit, they could do some physical work at home," Bovelander told WION in an exclusive interview. Bovelander further explained the importance of training effectively rather than spending long hours. Courtesy Bovelander, trainers from the Netherlands joined virtually and spend time with Indian trainers as they shared their knowledge about hockey. "For me, Hockey is being together and playing together as well. Hockey is also about tactics, the game plan, and playing as a team. With a better understanding of Indian hockey, we have realized the importance of focusing on the tactics and giving the players more experience in competitive play – which are built into their training programs. "Along with gameplay and physical fitness sessions – rest and recovery are equally important. As well as developing life skills and education. Indians tend to over train – and frankly, as compared to the Netherlands, the number of hours of training given to young athletes in India is very high. Better play fewer hours but these hours must be highly effective, with good passion and dedication. Good coaching for every level is essential. "What I really liked is that we could connect to some girls and boys in rural areas via virtual modes of interactions. In the end, we managed to connect our trainers in the Netherlands with the trainers in these areas - which is kind of amazing that we have a connection between Holland and the rural areas of India," Bovelander added. Bovelander praised infrastructure at the Naval Tata Hockey Academy in Odisha as he went through the challenges faced by everyone associated in the program during the lockdown. "The good thing about the Naval Tata Hockey Academy is that the infrastructure at Kalinga stadium is designed such that the players can live in a bio bubble. Their hostel is next to the pitch and the have food prepared in the canteen, which is also within the Kalinga stadium and managed by the Tata’s so we can control the hygiene factor. So during the coronavirus period, the female players were allowed to come to Bhubaneshwar, get tested, and live in the bubble and play Hockey. "The infrastructure in Bhubaneshwar is superb for these players we have selected. Training on the pitch and living in the stadium complex where the World Cup and all the international matches are played is very inspiring for them. You can see it their eyes and it reflects in their body language. Especially when they come here for the first time or when they are selected, they get really inspired and motivated by the infrastructure," the Olympic gold medallist said. Young players often don't have the necessary knowledge about mental health and nutrition. As COVID-19 pandemic continues to teach humans a revamped way of living, Bovelander feels it was the perfect time to educate young athletes about the importance of nutrition and mental health. "For our hockey program, we already have an experienced nutritionist and a mental trainer on board. The diet is prescribed by the nutritionist, after taking into consideration the individual needs based on regular health checkups and after observing the performance on the field. The nutritionist also conducts regular workshops with the cooks on the right kind of preparation needed to give required nutrition to the girls. She also conducts workshops for the girls to make them understand the importance of healthy eating habits," Neelam Babardesai – Head of Sports, Tata Trusts told WION. "Just like we have a strength and conditioning expert - who is generally termed as a Physical trainer - one who is responsible to keep one's body fit and strong, we have a mental trainer who is responsible for the player’s mental wellbeing and improving their mental strength. Just as regular exercises and drills are required to be physically fit, it’s important to regularly do some mental exercises to improve mental strength. This is a practice which we have to inculcate from a young age. It may range from breathing techniques to yoga. We believe that if we regularly work on the mental training of the players to improve their confidence and make them more responsible for themselves, we will be able to extract better performances. A sports psychologist is generally only required at a later elite stage - when the athlete may have to address performance-related issues. "The mental trainer conducts regular sessions with the girls in our academy to assess the personality of the children, map their fears and apprehensions and help them develop more confidence. Since our current trainer is well versed with the Odia language, it was easier for her to gain the trust and thus connect with them. With tutors helping the children to improve their learning levels, the trainer also counsels them on different career options, preparing them for a future beyond being a player," she added. Setting up a programme and to carry it without a hitch amid a pandemic and lockdown has its own set of challenges. "First and foremost is to find centres which have the basic infrastructure to run the programme – and then to collaborate with the local bodies to get permission to run the centres there. The centres also needed to be monitored, so the accessibility of these centres also needed to be looked at. The biggest challenge, however, is to find the right kind of coaches, locally, to teach in the programme and also to manage it. However strong a program we have, ultimately the children will improve their quality of play only if they get good coaches," Babardesai said. "We were very clear that we wanted to give career opportunities to the erstwhile players from the region – who may or may not have played competitively – but really had a passion towards the sport. So having a strong coach development program was imperative to the success of the program. At times the local players did have the basic skills right, but the communication skills required to teach the children was what needed developing. Majority of the tribal people are very shy and soft-spoken, so we really had to work hard with them to get them to open up on the field. We also supported them with travel allowances in case they had to travel long distances to reach the centres," she added. When asked about the risks of players picking up injuries after getting less or no physical exercise during the lockdown, Babardesai said that a full-time physiotherapist helped in cutting down the number of injuries by focusing on prevention of niggles. "The full-time physiotherapist not only helps post injuries but also focusses on prevention of injuries – by ensuring that their bodies are strong and that form of the exercises is correct. Based on physical tests and fitness assessments, an exercise schedule is defined detailing the kind of exercises and the repetitions along with an emphasis on the right amount of recovery. Even during the course of the pandemic, when in-person training was not possible, the children followed their exercise schedules diligently, which helped prepare the bodies correctly to resume the training without any injuries. The right kind of diet was also maintained throughout which also worked in preventing injuries and helped them get back to play," she explained.

Floris Jan Bovelander: Trying to produce next-gen Indian hockey stars

In March this year, Hockey India joined 38 other National Associations from around the world as a member of the World Masters Hockey (WMH).

The WMH is the sole Masters entity recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and is responsible for organizing International Masters hockey globally.

To further carry out responsibilities at the State Level, Hockey India encouraged all their State Member Units to form working Committees comprising of former National and International Hockey Players to lead the State level activity. This initiative will provide opportunities for all age groups, both genders to continue their passion for Hockey and remain active in the sports irrespective of any age barrier.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-receiving-islamist-threats-bangladeshs-shakib-al-hasan-apologises-for-attending-hindu-ceremony-in-india-343654" hreflang="en">After receiving Islamist threats, Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan apologises for attending Hindu ceremony in India</a>

These State Masters Committees have been formed by the Hockey India State Member Units to promote and further develop Masters Hockey across the country.

The Committee's first responsibility will be to ensure all the Masters athletes of various age categories are registered on the Hockey India Member Units Portal. Some of the Committee members of the State Member Units include the likes of former India Captain Pargat Singh, Mir Ranjan Negi, Gurbux Singh, Birbahadur Chettri among many others.&nbsp;

The Hockey India Masters Committee, which will be overseeing all matters related to these Masters matches and tournaments at the National level in India, is headed by Harbinder Singh as the Chairman of the Committee, Dr RP Singh as the Convener, with Members including former India players Mr. BP Govinda, Mr. Jagbir Singh, Dr. AB Subbaiah, Ms. Surinder Kaur and Ms. M Renuka Lakshmi.

By having a proper Hockey India Masters Committee with the mandate to encourage, plan and execute various Masters hockey events in the country, it gives former players the chance to deep-dive once again into the adrenaline rush that comes with playing their favourite sport.

Speaking about the overwhelming response received from State Member Units to form Masters Committee, Rajinder Singh, Secretary General, Hockey India said: "We are happy to receive great support from our State Member Units who have promptly formed their respectively Committees with some very prominent names of Indian hockey. I am confident with their passion and endeavour, we will be able to develop a platform for former players in the Masters Category to remain in the sport regardless of their age. One of the goals of Masters Committee is to encourage players to come back onto the field and play hockey as a recreational activity and to stay in touch with the sport that they have always loved and been passionate about."

In March this year, Hockey India joined 38 other National Associations from around the world as a member of the World Masters Hockey (WMH). The WMH is the sole Masters entity recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and is responsible for organizing International Masters hockey globally.

In March this year, Hockey India joined 38 other National Associations from around the world as a member of the World Masters Hockey (WMH). The WMH is the sole Masters entity recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and is responsible for organizing International Masters hockey globally. To further carry out responsibilities at the State Level, Hockey India encouraged all their State Member Units to form working Committees comprising of former National and International Hockey Players to lead the State level activity. This initiative will provide opportunities for all age groups, both genders to continue their passion for Hockey and remain active in the sports irrespective of any age barrier. ALSO READ: After receiving Islamist threats, Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan apologises for attending Hindu ceremony in India These State Masters Committees have been formed by the Hockey India State Member Units to promote and further develop Masters Hockey across the country. The Committee's first responsibility will be to ensure all the Masters athletes of various age categories are registered on the Hockey India Member Units Portal. Some of the Committee members of the State Member Units include the likes of former India Captain Pargat Singh, Mir Ranjan Negi, Gurbux Singh, Birbahadur Chettri among many others. The Hockey India Masters Committee, which will be overseeing all matters related to these Masters matches and tournaments at the National level in India, is headed by Harbinder Singh as the Chairman of the Committee, Dr RP Singh as the Convener, with Members including former India players Mr. BP Govinda, Mr. Jagbir Singh, Dr. AB Subbaiah, Ms. Surinder Kaur and Ms. M Renuka Lakshmi. By having a proper Hockey India Masters Committee with the mandate to encourage, plan and execute various Masters hockey events in the country, it gives former players the chance to deep-dive once again into the adrenaline rush that comes with playing their favourite sport. Speaking about the overwhelming response received from State Member Units to form Masters Committee, Rajinder Singh, Secretary General, Hockey India said: "We are happy to receive great support from our State Member Units who have promptly formed their respectively Committees with some very prominent names of Indian hockey. I am confident with their passion and endeavour, we will be able to develop a platform for former players in the Masters Category to remain in the sport regardless of their age. One of the goals of Masters Committee is to encourage players to come back onto the field and play hockey as a recreational activity and to stay in touch with the sport that they have always loved and been passionate about."

Hockey India State Member Units form Hockey India Masters Committee

Sports and socialising go hand in hand so how is it faring during this time of social distancing? Hockey India&nbsp;takes you behind-the-scenes on Twitter with live Q&amp;A and a rare peep into the day of players amid COVID-19.&nbsp;

As the world combats the COVID-19 pandemic, all the major sporting events in India and across the globe have either been postponed or cancelled including 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which the Indian hockey fans had been eagerly awaiting. While there is no live on-field action, Hockey India took to Twitter to engage with fans of the game and bring the players from both the men’s and women’s national teams to answer questions from passionate followers of the sport. This unique, open and real-time action harnessed the positive power of Twitter in the form of real-time engagement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-trying-to-stay-positive-and-keep-our-spirits-up-pr-sreejesh-reflects-on-life-in-lockdown-postponement-of-tokyo-olympics-and-much-more-292979">Exclusive: 'Trying to stay positive and keep our spirits up' - PR Sreejesh reflects on life in lockdown, postponement of Tokyo Olympics, and much more</a>

During the lockdown, The Hockey India conducted a special Twitter Q&amp;A, #AskTeamIndia, and went live on the service with four players - India women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, India men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh, India men's hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh&nbsp;and defender Harmanpreet Singh&nbsp;- all of whom interacted keenly with their fans.

PR Sreejesh&nbsp;shares, “Twitter has always been a great service to engage with our fans, we are happy to have their support in #AskTeamIndia initiative which is fun, meaningful and also in some way I hope we are motivating fans to stay positive and active during these difficult times.”

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Here's your chance to ask <a href="https://twitter.com/imranirampal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imranirampal</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manpreetpawar07</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@16Sreejesh</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/13harmanpreet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@13harmanpreet</a> anything and they will answer your questions tomorrow! 
 
All you have to do is tag <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a> and use <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AskTeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AskTeamIndia</a> alongside your question! 
 
Are you this happy right now? 
 
(3/4) <a href="https://t.co/bWFTdsVHKN">pic.twitter.com/bWFTdsVHKN</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254669884211867648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Hey Sabapathi.. 
Adding the pictures of the books which I finished ... couple of them are there in my kindle as well <a href="https://t.co/UW0smKjibW">pic.twitter.com/UW0smKjibW</a>
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1255047036061114368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Currently we are only working on indoor fitness. Also working on our mental fitness and video analysis sessions. We all are trying to stay as much positive as we can.
— Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) <a href="https://twitter.com/imranirampal/status/1255066270535319552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Hey 
Hope you are safe ! 
So from the current indian squad 
Respect to discipline- shreejesh 
Behavior- rupinder bob 
Relationship with co- player — mandeep and simran (bhai bhai) 
Hardwork- everybody 
Sincerity- shreejesh 
Fun- maker —- simran gurinder and mandeep 
Thank you
— Harmanpreet Singh (@13harmanpreet) <a href="https://twitter.com/13harmanpreet/status/1255091048633659392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Talivaaaa
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1255089613778989056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Well our qualification to Tokyo Olympics is a great team effort and lot of hard work put in by our coaches &amp; support staff alongwith <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a> It was an honour for me to lead the team during qualifiers. It was really a great moment for all the teammates &amp; everyone involved.
— Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) <a href="https://twitter.com/imranirampal/status/1255065348484677635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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If you work out every day .... No food is unhealthy ( That’s my mantra)
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1255073581857247233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In addition to this candid chat, The Hockey India also kept fans updated with behind-the-scenes pictures to share how players are spending time indoors.

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Good Morning everyone! It feels as if 𝐵𝑎𝑑𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑒 𝑃𝑎𝑎𝑜𝑛 𝐻𝑎𝑖! ☁️🎶<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/qETeKH0ZOH">pic.twitter.com/qETeKH0ZOH</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254979282088034304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Din ki shuruaat ke liye, मेरे लिए तुम 𝐶𝑜𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑒 हो! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/BsfL6Up9p6">pic.twitter.com/BsfL6Up9p6</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254983586194681857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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𝑆𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑗 𝑇𝑒𝑟𝑎 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑑ℎ𝑡𝑎 𝐷ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑡𝑎, 𝐺𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑀𝑒𝑖𝑛 𝐾𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒 𝐻𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑇𝑎𝑟𝑒, 𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ ̶𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ dumbbell dumbbell! 
 
No day is complete without a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Workout?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Workout</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fjsir1Va6U">pic.twitter.com/Fjsir1Va6U</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254999361496334336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The India women's hockey team also completed a fitness challenge, as a part of which, they Tweeted fitness videos to raise funds to help those whose lives have been adversely impacted by Coronavirus.

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Thank you for raising over ₹17,50,000 to help feed over 1000 families during this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lockdown</a>. 
 
Come back tomorrow for yet another challenge by our Eves. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100da?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100da</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeChallengeGive100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TakeChallengeGive100</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Give100ForCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Give100ForCOVID</a> <a href="https://t.co/CRxJsJG8Cy">pic.twitter.com/CRxJsJG8Cy</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254762199836274688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Completed Challenge 
Raised over ₹15,00,000 
Reach the goal of 20 Lakhs! 
 
We appreciate everyone's support on this journey to fight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100da?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100da</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeChallengeGive100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TakeChallengeGive100</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Give100ForCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Give100ForCOVID</a><a href="https://twitter.com/sports_odisha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sports_odisha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/udayfoundation?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@udayfoundation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ketto?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ketto</a> <a href="https://t.co/OV7E4QIJND">pic.twitter.com/OV7E4QIJND</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1253677386018615307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Completing Burpees with ease = raising over ₹9,00,000 to help reach the goal to feed 1000 families. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaWomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaWomen</a>'sTeam thanks everyone who is coming out and being a part of this noble cause. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100da?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100da</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeChallengeGive100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TakeChallengeGive100</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Give100ForCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Give100ForCOVID</a> <a href="https://t.co/3Q2Gb5w7Ue">pic.twitter.com/3Q2Gb5w7Ue</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1252583268773326849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Sports and socialising go hand in hand so how is it faring during this time of social distancing? Hockey India takes you behind-the-scenes on Twitter with live Q&A and a rare peep into the day of players amid COVID-19.

Sports and socialising go hand in hand so how is it faring during this time of social distancing? Hockey India takes you behind-the-scenes on Twitter with live Q&A and a rare peep into the day of players amid COVID-19. As the world combats the COVID-19 pandemic, all the major sporting events in India and across the globe have either been postponed or cancelled including 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which the Indian hockey fans had been eagerly awaiting. While there is no live on-field action, Hockey India took to Twitter to engage with fans of the game and bring the players from both the men’s and women’s national teams to answer questions from passionate followers of the sport. This unique, open and real-time action harnessed the positive power of Twitter in the form of real-time engagement. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Trying to stay positive and keep our spirits up' - PR Sreejesh reflects on life in lockdown, postponement of Tokyo Olympics, and much more During the lockdown, The Hockey India conducted a special Twitter Q&A, #AskTeamIndia, and went live on the service with four players - India women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, India men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh, India men's hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and defender Harmanpreet Singh - all of whom interacted keenly with their fans. PR Sreejesh shares, “Twitter has always been a great service to engage with our fans, we are happy to have their support in #AskTeamIndia initiative which is fun, meaningful and also in some way I hope we are motivating fans to stay positive and active during these difficult times.” Here's your chance to ask @imranirampal, @manpreetpawar07, @16Sreejesh and @13harmanpreet anything and they will answer your questions tomorrow! All you have to do is tag @TheHockeyIndia and use #AskTeamIndia alongside your question! Are you this happy right now? (3/4) pic.twitter.com/bWFTdsVHKN — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 27, 2020 × Hey Sabapathi.. Adding the pictures of the books which I finished ... couple of them are there in my kindle as well pic.twitter.com/UW0smKjibW — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) April 28, 2020 × Currently we are only working on indoor fitness. Also working on our mental fitness and video analysis sessions. We all are trying to stay as much positive as we can. — Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) April 28, 2020 × Hey Hope you are safe ! So from the current indian squad Respect to discipline- shreejesh Behavior- rupinder bob Relationship with co- player — mandeep and simran (bhai bhai) Hardwork- everybody Sincerity- shreejesh Fun- maker —- simran gurinder and mandeep Thank you — Harmanpreet Singh (@13harmanpreet) April 28, 2020 × Talivaaaa — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) April 28, 2020 × Well our qualification to Tokyo Olympics is a great team effort and lot of hard work put in by our coaches & support staff alongwith @TheHockeyIndia It was an honour for me to lead the team during qualifiers. It was really a great moment for all the teammates & everyone involved. — Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) April 28, 2020 × If you work out every day .... No food is unhealthy ( That’s my mantra) — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) April 28, 2020 × In addition to this candid chat, The Hockey India also kept fans updated with behind-the-scenes pictures to share how players are spending time indoors. Good Morning everyone! It feels as if 𝐵𝑎𝑑𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑒 𝑃𝑎𝑎𝑜𝑛 𝐻𝑎𝑖! ☁️🎶#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/qETeKH0ZOH — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 28, 2020 × Din ki shuruaat ke liye, मेरे लिए तुम 𝐶𝑜𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑒 हो! #IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/BsfL6Up9p6 — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 28, 2020 × 𝑆𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑗 𝑇𝑒𝑟𝑎 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑑ℎ𝑡𝑎 𝐷ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑡𝑎, 𝐺𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑀𝑒𝑖𝑛 𝐾𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒 𝐻𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑇𝑎𝑟𝑒, 𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ ̶𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ dumbbell dumbbell! No day is complete without a #Workout!#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/Fjsir1Va6U — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 28, 2020 × The India women's hockey team also completed a fitness challenge, as a part of which, they Tweeted fitness videos to raise funds to help those whose lives have been adversely impacted by Coronavirus. Thank you for raising over ₹17,50,000 to help feed over 1000 families during this #Lockdown. Come back tomorrow for yet another challenge by our Eves. #IndiaKaGame #100da #TakeChallengeGive100 #Give100ForCOVID pic.twitter.com/CRxJsJG8Cy — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 27, 2020 × Completed Challenge Raised over ₹15,00,000 Reach the goal of 20 Lakhs! We appreciate everyone's support on this journey to fight #COVID19. #IndiaKaGame #100da #TakeChallengeGive100 #Give100ForCOVID@sports_odisha @Media_SAI @IndiaSports @udayfoundation @ketto pic.twitter.com/OV7E4QIJND — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 24, 2020 × Completing Burpees with ease = raising over ₹9,00,000 to help reach the goal to feed 1000 families. #IndiaWomen'sTeam thanks everyone who is coming out and being a part of this noble cause. #IndiaKaGame #100da #TakeChallengeGive100 #Give100ForCOVID pic.twitter.com/3Q2Gb5w7Ue — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 21, 2020 ×

Twitter brings fans closer to their favourite hockey players with #AskTeamIndia and behind-the-scenes action

Hockey India on Friday announced an 18-member women's squad for the upcoming Olympic Test Event in Japan.

Rani Rampal will lead the Indian team and Savita is appointed as the vice-captain of the squad.

Under chief coach Sjoerd Marijne, the composition of the team has remained similar to the one which participated at the FIH Women's Series Finals in Hiroshima last month, with the Dutchman having opted for only two changes in the 18-member team selected for the Tokyo Olympics 2020 Test Event.

Youngsters Sharmila Devi and Reena Khokhar have come into the team, with Sunita Lakra and Jyoti giving way. Khokhar had been sidelined due to injury but makes a comeback into the side after recovering successfully, while Sharmila Devi will be expecting to make her debut for the national side.

The Indian team, currently ranked number ten in the FIH rankings will be facing tough challenges as they will be playing against the likes of world number two Australia, world number 11 China and hosts Japan who is currently ranked 14th in the FIH rankings.

"We are looking forward to playing three top countries at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 Test Event as I rate them all highly. We have selected a squad of 18 players where only 16 players will be allowed to play in accordance to the Olympic standards," said chief coach Sjoerd Marijne.

"I will be very interested to see how we fare against these countries, and what we need to improve for the FIH Olympic Qualifiers because everything that we do, will be focused on that. We will be learning good lessons in this tour regardless of whatever happens," Marijine added.

Indian Women's Hockey Team for the Olympic Test Event is as follows: Rani (c), Nisha (vc), Savita (GK), Rajani Etimarpu (GK), Deep Grace Ekka, Reena Khokhar, Gurjit Kaur, Salima Tete, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan, Monika, Lilima Minz, Neha Goyal, Navneet Kaur, Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur, and Sharmila Devi. The Olympic Test event is scheduled to be held between August 17 to 21 in Japan.

Hockey India on Friday announced an 18-member women's squad for the upcoming Olympic Test Event in Japan. Rani Rampal will lead the Indian team and Savita is appointed as the vice-captain of the squad.

Hockey India on Friday announced an 18-member women's squad for the upcoming Olympic Test Event in Japan. Rani Rampal will lead the Indian team and Savita is appointed as the vice-captain of the squad. Under chief coach Sjoerd Marijne, the composition of the team has remained similar to the one which participated at the FIH Women's Series Finals in Hiroshima last month, with the Dutchman having opted for only two changes in the 18-member team selected for the Tokyo Olympics 2020 Test Event. Youngsters Sharmila Devi and Reena Khokhar have come into the team, with Sunita Lakra and Jyoti giving way. Khokhar had been sidelined due to injury but makes a comeback into the side after recovering successfully, while Sharmila Devi will be expecting to make her debut for the national side. The Indian team, currently ranked number ten in the FIH rankings will be facing tough challenges as they will be playing against the likes of world number two Australia, world number 11 China and hosts Japan who is currently ranked 14th in the FIH rankings. "We are looking forward to playing three top countries at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 Test Event as I rate them all highly. We have selected a squad of 18 players where only 16 players will be allowed to play in accordance to the Olympic standards," said chief coach Sjoerd Marijne. "I will be very interested to see how we fare against these countries, and what we need to improve for the FIH Olympic Qualifiers because everything that we do, will be focused on that. We will be learning good lessons in this tour regardless of whatever happens," Marijine added. Indian Women's Hockey Team for the Olympic Test Event is as follows: Rani (c), Nisha (vc), Savita (GK), Rajani Etimarpu (GK), Deep Grace Ekka, Reena Khokhar, Gurjit Kaur, Salima Tete, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan, Monika, Lilima Minz, Neha Goyal, Navneet Kaur, Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur, and Sharmila Devi. The Olympic Test event is scheduled to be held between August 17 to 21 in Japan.

Hockey India names 18-member women's squad for Olympic Test Event

India lived up to their billing and thrashed South Africa 5-1 in the summit clash to win the FIH Series Finals hockey tournament here Saturday.&nbsp;

Coming into the tournament as overwhelming favourites, world no. 5 India played like champions and remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.

Dragflickers Varun Kumar (2nd and 49th minutes) and Harmanpreet Singh (11th and 25th) scored a brace each, while Vivek Sagar Prasad (35th) was the other goal scorer for India.

South Africa's lone goal was scored by Richard Pautz in the 53rd minute.

India and South Africa have already qualified for the final round of the Olympic qualifiers before Saturday's summit clash.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Asian Games champion Japan defeated USA 4-2 to finish third in the competition.

The top two finishers of this tournament make it to the final round of the Olympic qualifiers to be held later this year.&nbsp;

Going by world rankings, the Indians were expected to control the proceedings and they exactly did that from the word go.

India secured their first penalty corner as early as in the second minute and Varun made no mistake in converting the opportunity into goal.

In the 11th minute, India got another penalty corner and this time Harmanpreet slammed home to make the scoreline 2-0 in favour of the hosts.

Seconds before the end of the first quarter, South Africa got a rare opportunity but Nqobile Ntuli's reverse hit was kept away by Krishan Bahadur Pathak in front of the Indian goal.

Five minutes from half time, India were awarded a penalty stroke when Birendra Lakra was stick-checked inside South Africa's 'D' by Jethro Eustice and Harmanpreet made no mistake to make the scoreline 3-0.

The flow of the match continued in the same vein after the change of ends with India dominating the proceedings.

Five minutes into the third quarter, India extended their lead when Vivek Sagar Prasad scored from close range after being set up by Simranjeet Singh.

India secured their third penalty corner in the 41st minute but this time Amit Rohidas' try was saved by the South African goalkeeper.

India kept up the pressure and earned their fourth penalty corner in the 49th minute and Varun scored from a variation to make the scoreline 5-0 in the home team's favour.

South Africa finally had something to cheer about when they secured back-to-back penalty corners in the 53rd minute and from the second chance, Pautz deflected in Eustice's flick to reduce the margin to 5-1.

Four minutes from the final hooter, India secured two more penalty corners but failed to utilise the opportunities.

South Africa too got a last chance to pull another goal back in the form of their third penalty corner but to no effect.&nbsp;

India's chief coach Graham Reid was relatively satisfied with his wards performances and said the just-concluded tournament was a good outing in terms of preparation for the Tokyo Olympics.

"I think what I am pleased with is the last two matches, where it really counted. We played well. Yesterday was very good, today was good in parts. We can learn from things," he said after the victory.

"Good to practice in the heat with back-to-back matches. That's the kind of heat we will face in Tokyo." 
Reid also pointed out the positives he has derived from this tournament.&nbsp;

"I never put an upper limit on something. We should always get better. From the point of PC conversion, all our flickers did well in this event. The great thing is we are creating opportunities. Next phase is to ensure we convert those percentages," he said.&nbsp;

The chief coach, however, said defence is something in which India will need to work extensively in the run up to the final Olympic qualifying event later this year and thereafter as well.

"You expect a lot of pressure in our defence. We have a defensive camp coming up in the first or second week in July. So we have a couple of good coaches coming. I am looking forward to it," he signed off.&nbsp;

India lived up to their billing and thrashed South Africa 5-1 in the summit clash to win the FIH Series Finals hockey tournament here Saturday. Coming into the tournament as overwhelming favourites, world no.

India lived up to their billing and thrashed South Africa 5-1 in the summit clash to win the FIH Series Finals hockey tournament here Saturday. Coming into the tournament as overwhelming favourites, world no. 5 India played like champions and remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. Dragflickers Varun Kumar (2nd and 49th minutes) and Harmanpreet Singh (11th and 25th) scored a brace each, while Vivek Sagar Prasad (35th) was the other goal scorer for India. South Africa's lone goal was scored by Richard Pautz in the 53rd minute. India and South Africa have already qualified for the final round of the Olympic qualifiers before Saturday's summit clash. Earlier in the day, Asian Games champion Japan defeated USA 4-2 to finish third in the competition. The top two finishers of this tournament make it to the final round of the Olympic qualifiers to be held later this year. Going by world rankings, the Indians were expected to control the proceedings and they exactly did that from the word go. India secured their first penalty corner as early as in the second minute and Varun made no mistake in converting the opportunity into goal. In the 11th minute, India got another penalty corner and this time Harmanpreet slammed home to make the scoreline 2-0 in favour of the hosts. Seconds before the end of the first quarter, South Africa got a rare opportunity but Nqobile Ntuli's reverse hit was kept away by Krishan Bahadur Pathak in front of the Indian goal. Five minutes from half time, India were awarded a penalty stroke when Birendra Lakra was stick-checked inside South Africa's 'D' by Jethro Eustice and Harmanpreet made no mistake to make the scoreline 3-0. The flow of the match continued in the same vein after the change of ends with India dominating the proceedings. Five minutes into the third quarter, India extended their lead when Vivek Sagar Prasad scored from close range after being set up by Simranjeet Singh. India secured their third penalty corner in the 41st minute but this time Amit Rohidas' try was saved by the South African goalkeeper. India kept up the pressure and earned their fourth penalty corner in the 49th minute and Varun scored from a variation to make the scoreline 5-0 in the home team's favour. South Africa finally had something to cheer about when they secured back-to-back penalty corners in the 53rd minute and from the second chance, Pautz deflected in Eustice's flick to reduce the margin to 5-1. Four minutes from the final hooter, India secured two more penalty corners but failed to utilise the opportunities. South Africa too got a last chance to pull another goal back in the form of their third penalty corner but to no effect. India's chief coach Graham Reid was relatively satisfied with his wards performances and said the just-concluded tournament was a good outing in terms of preparation for the Tokyo Olympics. "I think what I am pleased with is the last two matches, where it really counted. We played well. Yesterday was very good, today was good in parts. We can learn from things," he said after the victory. "Good to practice in the heat with back-to-back matches. That's the kind of heat we will face in Tokyo." Reid also pointed out the positives he has derived from this tournament. "I never put an upper limit on something. We should always get better. From the point of PC conversion, all our flickers did well in this event. The great thing is we are creating opportunities. Next phase is to ensure we convert those percentages," he said. The chief coach, however, said defence is something in which India will need to work extensively in the run up to the final Olympic qualifying event later this year and thereafter as well. "You expect a lot of pressure in our defence. We have a defensive camp coming up in the first or second week in July. So we have a couple of good coaches coming. I am looking forward to it," he signed off.

India beat South Africa 5-1 to win FIH Series Finals

In a bid to raise the standards of umpiring and officiating in the country, Hockey India on Tuesday announced it will conduct an online test on March 29.

The online Test is designed as part of a program for professional development of the umpires and technical officials.&nbsp;

It will help them enhance their skill-based and knowledge-based expertise. It is also expected to illustrate the officials' knowledge levels of International Hockey Federation (FIH) rules and regulations.

The online test will focus on testing the practical and theoretical knowledge of the FIH Rules of hockey.

It is mandatory for any candidate appearing for this test to be registered with a Hockey India Permanent/ Associate State Member Unit.

The registration for the test begin on Tuesday and close on March 15 at 5pm.

"Organising this online test will only raise the bar of umpiring and technical officiating in India," said Rajinder Singh, Secretary General, Hockey India.

"We have several young men and women who want to stay connected to the game by professionally pursuing umpiring and Technical Official courses and we wanted to ensure they are on-par with the international standards."

In a bid to raise the standards of umpiring and officiating in the country, Hockey India on Tuesday announced it will conduct an online test on March 29. The online Test is designed as part of a program for professional development of the umpires and technical officials.

In a bid to raise the standards of umpiring and officiating in the country, Hockey India on Tuesday announced it will conduct an online test on March 29. The online Test is designed as part of a program for professional development of the umpires and technical officials. It will help them enhance their skill-based and knowledge-based expertise. It is also expected to illustrate the officials' knowledge levels of International Hockey Federation (FIH) rules and regulations. The online test will focus on testing the practical and theoretical knowledge of the FIH Rules of hockey. It is mandatory for any candidate appearing for this test to be registered with a Hockey India Permanent/ Associate State Member Unit. The registration for the test begin on Tuesday and close on March 15 at 5pm. "Organising this online test will only raise the bar of umpiring and technical officiating in India," said Rajinder Singh, Secretary General, Hockey India. "We have several young men and women who want to stay connected to the game by professionally pursuing umpiring and Technical Official courses and we wanted to ensure they are on-par with the international standards."

Hockey India to conduct online test for umpires and technical officials

Harendra Singh's outburst against umpiring after India's quarter-final loss to Netherlands in the ongoing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">World Cup</a> didn't go down well with the world body (FIH) and its President Narinder Batra Saturday hinted at a strict action against the coach for his indecent behaviour.

Eyeing to rewrite history after a hiatus of 43 years, India lost 1-2 to Netherlands in the fourth and last quarter-final to crash out of the tournament in front of a packed Kalinga Stadium.

Soon after the defeat, Harendra blamed poor umpiring for his side's unexpected early ouster, saying FIH seriously need to address the issue as his side has been on the receiving end of poor on-field decisions twice this year.

But the India coach's vitriolic outburst came back to haunt him as the FIH chief said a team should be graceful in defeat and questioning umpires is against the spirit of the game.

"Being the FIH President I have to follow certain protocols and I have my strong reservations against this kind of behaviour. A sport has to be played in the right spirit," Batra said in a press conference also attended by FIH CEO Thierry Wiel here on Saturday.

"One should be graceful whether you win or lose. Finding a fault is very easy. You should rather appreciate and respect. They (umpires) have only two eyes. They are doing a job, a thankless job. They will get criticised by anybody who loses," he added.

Harendra's job has been under the scanner ever since India failed to defend its Asian Games title in Jakarta and the World Cup was his last opportunity to save his skin.

It seems the India coach is set to lose his job with Hockey India mulling to take a drastic decision on the matter after the conclusion of the World Cup.

A former chief of Hockey India, Batra, who has considerable influence on the national federation, further indicated that some radical changes are on the offing in Indian hockey.

"I am here till the 17th December and then I will return to Delhi. After 17th I will give my statement on the issue as NOC (National Olympic Committee) President," said Batra, who also heads the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

"You are being unfair to people on the grounds, sometimes umpires themselves ask for referrals. Other games have also adopted (video referrals)."

FIH CEO Weil, who came on board in March this year, too felt it was not wise to blame umpires after a defeat.

"I think the beauty of sports in principle is that you have a winner and a loser. The day you win, you are happy. The day you lose, you are sad, which I understand. Even Argentina team cried on the bench," he said.

"Respect in fair play is such a nice thing. When you lose, what you have to do? You have to look forward to play better and win next time. To blame umpires is not the hockey style.&nbsp;

"I would just recommend (that) and definitely say umpires have a tough job, decision to be made within seconds. It (questioning umpires) is not acceptable."

The FIH CEO said the world body is no mood to review any umpiring decisions.

"We will not review anything. We will review the teams who have made such complaints made against the umpires. That is not acceptable. If you lose, you have to accept it and look forward," Weil said.

Harendra Singh's outburst against umpiring after India's quarter-final loss to Netherlands in the ongoing World Cup didn't go down well with the world body (FIH) and its President Narinder Batra Saturday hinted at a strict action against the coach for his indecent behaviour.

Harendra Singh's outburst against umpiring after India's quarter-final loss to Netherlands in the ongoing World Cup didn't go down well with the world body (FIH) and its President Narinder Batra Saturday hinted at a strict action against the coach for his indecent behaviour. Eyeing to rewrite history after a hiatus of 43 years, India lost 1-2 to Netherlands in the fourth and last quarter-final to crash out of the tournament in front of a packed Kalinga Stadium. Soon after the defeat, Harendra blamed poor umpiring for his side's unexpected early ouster, saying FIH seriously need to address the issue as his side has been on the receiving end of poor on-field decisions twice this year. But the India coach's vitriolic outburst came back to haunt him as the FIH chief said a team should be graceful in defeat and questioning umpires is against the spirit of the game. "Being the FIH President I have to follow certain protocols and I have my strong reservations against this kind of behaviour. A sport has to be played in the right spirit," Batra said in a press conference also attended by FIH CEO Thierry Wiel here on Saturday. "One should be graceful whether you win or lose. Finding a fault is very easy. You should rather appreciate and respect. They (umpires) have only two eyes. They are doing a job, a thankless job. They will get criticised by anybody who loses," he added. Harendra's job has been under the scanner ever since India failed to defend its Asian Games title in Jakarta and the World Cup was his last opportunity to save his skin. It seems the India coach is set to lose his job with Hockey India mulling to take a drastic decision on the matter after the conclusion of the World Cup. A former chief of Hockey India, Batra, who has considerable influence on the national federation, further indicated that some radical changes are on the offing in Indian hockey. "I am here till the 17th December and then I will return to Delhi. After 17th I will give my statement on the issue as NOC (National Olympic Committee) President," said Batra, who also heads the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). "You are being unfair to people on the grounds, sometimes umpires themselves ask for referrals. Other games have also adopted (video referrals)." FIH CEO Weil, who came on board in March this year, too felt it was not wise to blame umpires after a defeat. "I think the beauty of sports in principle is that you have a winner and a loser. The day you win, you are happy. The day you lose, you are sad, which I understand. Even Argentina team cried on the bench," he said. "Respect in fair play is such a nice thing. When you lose, what you have to do? You have to look forward to play better and win next time. To blame umpires is not the hockey style. "I would just recommend (that) and definitely say umpires have a tough job, decision to be made within seconds. It (questioning umpires) is not acceptable." The FIH CEO said the world body is no mood to review any umpiring decisions. "We will not review anything. We will review the teams who have made such complaints made against the umpires. That is not acceptable. If you lose, you have to accept it and look forward," Weil said.

India coach Harendra Singh irks FIH for raising questions on umpiring

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