In a shocking development, Birendra Lakra -- India's 32-year-old hockey player -- has found himself in a huge controversy. The Olympian, who had announced his international retirement in September last year before taking it back, has been accused of playing a role in the death of&nbsp;his friend. The allegations were levelled at the former hockey player by the kin of the late 28-year-old man.

For the unversed, the body of the man&nbsp;was found hanging in an apartment in Bhubaneswar early this year, on February 28, shortly after he reached the city from Sundargarh. He was brought dead at a hospital in the state capital.&nbsp;

After his death, the man's father claimed that he suspected the involvement of Birendra and a woman named Manjeet Tete. "He did not give any coherent detail... My son was reportedly found dead in the flat in Infocity area at around 10 am shortly after his arrival there. Only Lakra and the woman named Manjeet Tete were present in the flat... The woman first saw my son hanging and brought him down. This story and the circumstances in which my son was found dead raise serious doubts,” he alleged.

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Following the serious allegations imposed on him, Birendra has not shared his response. It will be interesting to see how he reacts in public to the serious charges. The veteran player was part of India's recent success in the just-concluded Asia Cup, where he led the national side&nbsp;to the elusive bronze medal. The defender was also part of India's historic run in Tokyo 2020, where they ended at the third position.

In a shocking development, Birendra Lakra -- India's 32-year-old hockey player -- has found himself in a huge controversy. The Olympian, who had announced his international retirement in September last year before taking it back, has been accused of playing a role in the death of his friend.

In a shocking development, Birendra Lakra -- India's 32-year-old hockey player -- has found himself in a huge controversy. The Olympian, who had announced his international retirement in September last year before taking it back, has been accused of playing a role in the death of his friend. The allegations were levelled at the former hockey player by the kin of the late 28-year-old man. For the unversed, the body of the man was found hanging in an apartment in Bhubaneswar early this year, on February 28, shortly after he reached the city from Sundargarh. He was brought dead at a hospital in the state capital. After his death, the man's father claimed that he suspected the involvement of Birendra and a woman named Manjeet Tete. "He did not give any coherent detail... My son was reportedly found dead in the flat in Infocity area at around 10 am shortly after his arrival there. Only Lakra and the woman named Manjeet Tete were present in the flat... The woman first saw my son hanging and brought him down. This story and the circumstances in which my son was found dead raise serious doubts,” he alleged. ALSO READ | From Dutee Chand to Caster Semenya: Controversies related to gender identity in sports Following the serious allegations imposed on him, Birendra has not shared his response. It will be interesting to see how he reacts in public to the serious charges. The veteran player was part of India's recent success in the just-concluded Asia Cup, where he led the national side to the elusive bronze medal. The defender was also part of India's historic run in Tokyo 2020, where they ended at the third position.

Indian hockey player Birendra Lakra faces serious allegations in friend’s death in Odisha

With the championship title at stake, Netherlands pulled off a narrow 2-1 win against a fighting Indian men`s team here in the FIH Hockey Men`s Pro League encounter on Sunday. This win saw the hosts claim the FIH Hockey Pro League title while India ended their campaign with a third-place finish. Abhishek (1`) was the lone goal scorer for India while Jip Janssen (7`) and Jorrit Croon (45`) scored for the hosts. India had gotten off to a rollicking start with a goal in the opening minute of the match through Abhishek who made a brave foray into the striking circle and took a valiant shot on goal. Although the early 1-0 lead by India put the Dutch side on the back foot, they did not do anything out of the order under pressure but instead built on their attack which helped them win PCs. Jip Janssen taking the penalty corner was on target with a fiercely struck drag-flick that went past India`s experienced goalkeeper PR Sreejesh at a blistering pace.

Only a minute into the second quarter India created a brilliant opportunity when Harmanpreet Singh made a long pass to forward Gujrant Singh who took a fine shot on goal. But a stick tackle by Dutch defender saw India being awarded a penalty stroke. However, the chance was lost with Pirmin Blaak displaying impeccable skills to stop Harmanpreet`s flick aimed at the top right pocket. Only minutes later, Dutch launched a fine attack that saw them create a PC but an alert Sreejesh continued to impress with excellent saves. With scores tied at 1-1 when the teams went into the half-time break, it was an even battle in the following two quarters where both teams worked their strategies to create scoring opportunities. Though in the first half, the Dutch dominated with ball possession and circle entries, India upped the pressure in the third and fourth quarter with an improvised ball possession and circle penetration, creating a number of opportunities through PCs as well as field-goal chances. However, they couldn`t get clear shots that could beat the Dutch defence.

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Meanwhile, the hosts did not fumble in their attack as they converted from a PC in the 45th minute. A well-worked set-piece saw Jip flick the ball to the left flak which was perfectly deflected by Croon fetching that much-needed 2-1 lead.

Backed by the home support, Netherlands defended the score till the final hooter, thus clinching the championship with two more matches to be played against Spain. India, on the other hand, ended their campaign with 30 points on the table and Belgium have ended their campaign finishing second on the pool table.&nbsp;

With the championship title at stake, Netherlands pulled off a narrow 2-1 win against a fighting Indian men`s team here in the FIH Hockey Men`s Pro League encounter on Sunday.

With the championship title at stake, Netherlands pulled off a narrow 2-1 win against a fighting Indian men`s team here in the FIH Hockey Men`s Pro League encounter on Sunday. This win saw the hosts claim the FIH Hockey Pro League title while India ended their campaign with a third-place finish. Abhishek (1`) was the lone goal scorer for India while Jip Janssen (7`) and Jorrit Croon (45`) scored for the hosts. India had gotten off to a rollicking start with a goal in the opening minute of the match through Abhishek who made a brave foray into the striking circle and took a valiant shot on goal. Although the early 1-0 lead by India put the Dutch side on the back foot, they did not do anything out of the order under pressure but instead built on their attack which helped them win PCs. Jip Janssen taking the penalty corner was on target with a fiercely struck drag-flick that went past India`s experienced goalkeeper PR Sreejesh at a blistering pace. Only a minute into the second quarter India created a brilliant opportunity when Harmanpreet Singh made a long pass to forward Gujrant Singh who took a fine shot on goal. But a stick tackle by Dutch defender saw India being awarded a penalty stroke. However, the chance was lost with Pirmin Blaak displaying impeccable skills to stop Harmanpreet`s flick aimed at the top right pocket. Only minutes later, Dutch launched a fine attack that saw them create a PC but an alert Sreejesh continued to impress with excellent saves. With scores tied at 1-1 when the teams went into the half-time break, it was an even battle in the following two quarters where both teams worked their strategies to create scoring opportunities. Though in the first half, the Dutch dominated with ball possession and circle entries, India upped the pressure in the third and fourth quarter with an improvised ball possession and circle penetration, creating a number of opportunities through PCs as well as field-goal chances. However, they couldn`t get clear shots that could beat the Dutch defence. ALSO READ | Resilient Indian men's hockey team hold Netherlands 2-2, but lose 1-4 in shootout Meanwhile, the hosts did not fumble in their attack as they converted from a PC in the 45th minute. A well-worked set-piece saw Jip flick the ball to the left flak which was perfectly deflected by Croon fetching that much-needed 2-1 lead. Backed by the home support, Netherlands defended the score till the final hooter, thus clinching the championship with two more matches to be played against Spain. India, on the other hand, ended their campaign with 30 points on the table and Belgium have ended their campaign finishing second on the pool table.

FIH Hockey Pro League: Netherlands beat India 2-1 to clinch maiden title

An incredible fightback saw India win a point from a thrilling 2-2 draw against the hosts Netherlands in the regulation time of the FIH Hockey Pro League match here on Saturday. It was goals by Dilpreet Singh (22`) and Harmanpreet Singh`s (60+) that helped India equalize on both occasions.&nbsp;However, the hosts added on bonus points from a 4-1 shootout win with their experienced goalkeeper Pirmin Blaak keeping the Indian attackers at bay.

Earlier in the game, the Netherlands backed by a boisterous home crowd got off to a flying start creating two excellent shots on goal within two minutes of the start of the match. But luckily for India, both shots were off target.

Around the 5th minute, India launched an ambitious attack through Hardik Singh who cut into the circle from the top, attempting to take a shot on goal but the Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak cleared the ball. It was, however, the Netherlands who fetched the first goal of the match when Derck de Vilder beat Indian defender Varun Kumar to find Tijmen Reyenga.

With no defender near him, Reyenga (10`) took his time to take a successful shot past experienced India custodian Sreejesh to take a 1-0 lead. Only seconds later, India fought back with Mandeep Singh creating a fine opportunity with a tactically earned PC.

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While Harmanpreet Singh`s first shot was blocked, and a retake was awarded, a goal by Mandeep Singh off a rebound from the drag-flick in the second attempt was disallowed by the umpire on account of dangerous play. It continued to be an action-packed first quarter with India building on the intensity in their attack.

This time, it was Abhishek challenging Blaak at the goal post, resulting in a PC but Jugraj Singh`s flick was well-defended well by Blaak. With the Netherlands leading 1-0, Sreejesh`s inspired form was put to test once again in the second quarter when the hosts attacked the Indian post with back-to-back shots on goal through youngster Koen Bijen and Jorrit Croon, but an alert Sreejesh kept them at bay.

Meanwhile, Indian attackers broke the deadlock when a free-hit taken by Varun Kumar was cleverly passed to Dilpreet Singh, positioned perfectly inside the circle who just angled the deflection into the Netherlands` post. With the scores levelled, India mounted pressure in the Dutch half but couldn`t score from it.

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Seven minutes into the third quarter, Jasper Brinkman worked a good attack to help his team win a PC. But the drag-flick was well defended by Sreejesh. A re-take awarded for dangerous play gave the hosts another chance at regaining the lead but a mix-up in the execution denied them a chance on goal.

India too won a PC later in the third quarter through good stick work by Hardik but a poor execution of the set-piece denied India a chance at taking the 2-1 lead. With both teams tied at 1-1, the final quarter promised to be nail-biting with a fast-paced game being played out.

Netherlands eventually managed to strike in the 47th minute when a good assist by Stejin van Heijningen was picked up well by Koen Bijen who beat defender Surender Kumar to score a splendid field goal for the Dutch, taking the scoreline to 2-1. India, not the team to give up till the final hooter, came up with some exciting play as they pushed the ante in their attack.

After some unsuccessful moves, and time quickly ticking away, Vivek Sagar Prasad created a much-needed chance for India with just two seconds left for the final hooter. The PC was perfectly executed with Harmanpreet, the highest goal-scorer of the Pro League, scoring on the buzzer to take the match into the shootout.

On 19th June, the Indian men`s hockey team will take on Netherlands in the second of the double header at 2000 hrs IST in Rotterdam.&nbsp;

An incredible fightback saw India win a point from a thrilling 2-2 draw against the hosts Netherlands in the regulation time of the FIH Hockey Pro League match here on Saturday.

An incredible fightback saw India win a point from a thrilling 2-2 draw against the hosts Netherlands in the regulation time of the FIH Hockey Pro League match here on Saturday. It was goals by Dilpreet Singh (22`) and Harmanpreet Singh`s (60+) that helped India equalize on both occasions. However, the hosts added on bonus points from a 4-1 shootout win with their experienced goalkeeper Pirmin Blaak keeping the Indian attackers at bay. Earlier in the game, the Netherlands backed by a boisterous home crowd got off to a flying start creating two excellent shots on goal within two minutes of the start of the match. But luckily for India, both shots were off target. Around the 5th minute, India launched an ambitious attack through Hardik Singh who cut into the circle from the top, attempting to take a shot on goal but the Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak cleared the ball. It was, however, the Netherlands who fetched the first goal of the match when Derck de Vilder beat Indian defender Varun Kumar to find Tijmen Reyenga. With no defender near him, Reyenga (10`) took his time to take a successful shot past experienced India custodian Sreejesh to take a 1-0 lead. Only seconds later, India fought back with Mandeep Singh creating a fine opportunity with a tactically earned PC. Also Read: Neeraj Chopra wins gold medal in Kuortane Games, his first since Tokyo Olympics While Harmanpreet Singh`s first shot was blocked, and a retake was awarded, a goal by Mandeep Singh off a rebound from the drag-flick in the second attempt was disallowed by the umpire on account of dangerous play. It continued to be an action-packed first quarter with India building on the intensity in their attack. This time, it was Abhishek challenging Blaak at the goal post, resulting in a PC but Jugraj Singh`s flick was well-defended well by Blaak. With the Netherlands leading 1-0, Sreejesh`s inspired form was put to test once again in the second quarter when the hosts attacked the Indian post with back-to-back shots on goal through youngster Koen Bijen and Jorrit Croon, but an alert Sreejesh kept them at bay. Meanwhile, Indian attackers broke the deadlock when a free-hit taken by Varun Kumar was cleverly passed to Dilpreet Singh, positioned perfectly inside the circle who just angled the deflection into the Netherlands` post. With the scores levelled, India mounted pressure in the Dutch half but couldn`t score from it. Also Read: Should be mandatory for every IPL franchise to have a women's team: Lalit Modi Seven minutes into the third quarter, Jasper Brinkman worked a good attack to help his team win a PC. But the drag-flick was well defended by Sreejesh. A re-take awarded for dangerous play gave the hosts another chance at regaining the lead but a mix-up in the execution denied them a chance on goal. India too won a PC later in the third quarter through good stick work by Hardik but a poor execution of the set-piece denied India a chance at taking the 2-1 lead. With both teams tied at 1-1, the final quarter promised to be nail-biting with a fast-paced game being played out. Netherlands eventually managed to strike in the 47th minute when a good assist by Stejin van Heijningen was picked up well by Koen Bijen who beat defender Surender Kumar to score a splendid field goal for the Dutch, taking the scoreline to 2-1. India, not the team to give up till the final hooter, came up with some exciting play as they pushed the ante in their attack. After some unsuccessful moves, and time quickly ticking away, Vivek Sagar Prasad created a much-needed chance for India with just two seconds left for the final hooter. The PC was perfectly executed with Harmanpreet, the highest goal-scorer of the Pro League, scoring on the buzzer to take the match into the shootout. On 19th June, the Indian men`s hockey team will take on Netherlands in the second of the double header at 2000 hrs IST in Rotterdam.

Resilient Indian men's hockey team hold Netherlands 2-2, but lose 1-4 in shootout

In a brilliant battle of equals, hosts Belgium beat Indian Men`s Hockey Team 3-2 in their second leg of their double-header this weekend at the FIH Hockey Pro League here. It was Abhishek (25`) who scored the match`s first goal while Mandeep Singh (60`) scored a late goal for India. Nicolas de Kerpel (33`) and Alexander Hendrickx (49`, 59`) were the goal scorers for the hosts. With this win, Belgium have pushed India to the third place in the pool standings while Netherlands continues to lead the table in this season`s prestigious FIH Hockey Pro League. 
 
It was hosts Belgium who got off to a flying start, showing their will to bounce back after losing to India 4-5 in a tense shootout on Saturday. After a few attempts, Belgium found an early opportunity in the 7th minute through a PC but a poor variation denied them a lead. Three minutes later, Jarmanpreet`s assist to Sukhjeet Singh at the top of the circle opened up a brilliant chance for India to take the lead but Sukhjeet`s shot went over the goalpost. Both teams played the next few minutes with caution, rotating the ball tactfully creating space but neither team were successful in scoring a goal. 
 
After showing patience in their game, India finally broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when Gurjant teamed up with Lalit Upadhyay to set up a brilliant goal by Abhishek. Ahead by 1-0 at half-time, India came out of the ten-minute half-time break with a clear intent to increase their lead.

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Harmanpreet Singh created one such opportunity when he assisted experienced forward Akashdeep Singh with a brilliant long pass only a minute and a half into the third quarter. Poised on top of the circle, Akashdeep took a strong shot on goal but it went straight to the Belgian goalie Vincent Vanasch who padded the ball away. Only moments later, Belgium scored a splendid goal in the 33rd minute when a good interception dispossessed India, setting up a brilliant run into the circle where Arthur de Sloover set up Nicolas de Kerpel to score. Kerpel sneaked the ball past India`s vigilant custodian Sreejesh, into the extreme right corner of the post. The goal fetched the hosts a much-needed equaliser as they built on this attack to create many more opportunities in the following minutes. 
 
The hosts succeeded in extending their lead when they were awarded a PC after a foot foul by Indian defenders inside their circle. Alexander Hendrickx was on target firing the ball past India`s PC defence. 
 
With just five minutes left for the final hooter, India found a fine opportunity when they won a PC after a good video referral call. But dragflick specialist Harmanpreet`s aim to net the top of the post was pushed away by Belgium`s experienced goalie Vanasch. With just minutes left before the final hooter, Belgium put India under pressure when they drove into the striking circle. This was when a desperate body tackle by Sreejesh saw India concede a penalty stroke which was converted by Hendrickx with ease. 
 
Though, India fought back to the final second, with Manpreet Singh setting up India`s second goal when he assisted Vivek Sagar in the circle. A quick-thinking Vivek pushed the ball to Mandeep Singh who deflected the ball past Belgium`s keeper to narrow the lead to 2-3. But unfortunately, with just 30 seconds left, India`s excellent fight back ended in disappointment.

In a brilliant battle of equals, hosts Belgium beat Indian Men`s Hockey Team 3-2 in their second leg of their double-header this weekend at the FIH Hockey Pro League here.

In a brilliant battle of equals, hosts Belgium beat Indian Men`s Hockey Team 3-2 in their second leg of their double-header this weekend at the FIH Hockey Pro League here. It was Abhishek (25`) who scored the match`s first goal while Mandeep Singh (60`) scored a late goal for India. Nicolas de Kerpel (33`) and Alexander Hendrickx (49`, 59`) were the goal scorers for the hosts. With this win, Belgium have pushed India to the third place in the pool standings while Netherlands continues to lead the table in this season`s prestigious FIH Hockey Pro League. It was hosts Belgium who got off to a flying start, showing their will to bounce back after losing to India 4-5 in a tense shootout on Saturday. After a few attempts, Belgium found an early opportunity in the 7th minute through a PC but a poor variation denied them a lead. Three minutes later, Jarmanpreet`s assist to Sukhjeet Singh at the top of the circle opened up a brilliant chance for India to take the lead but Sukhjeet`s shot went over the goalpost. Both teams played the next few minutes with caution, rotating the ball tactfully creating space but neither team were successful in scoring a goal. After showing patience in their game, India finally broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when Gurjant teamed up with Lalit Upadhyay to set up a brilliant goal by Abhishek. Ahead by 1-0 at half-time, India came out of the ten-minute half-time break with a clear intent to increase their lead. ALSO READ | AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: India, AFG players engage in ugly brawl after Chhetri & Co.'s 2-1 win - WATCH Harmanpreet Singh created one such opportunity when he assisted experienced forward Akashdeep Singh with a brilliant long pass only a minute and a half into the third quarter. Poised on top of the circle, Akashdeep took a strong shot on goal but it went straight to the Belgian goalie Vincent Vanasch who padded the ball away. Only moments later, Belgium scored a splendid goal in the 33rd minute when a good interception dispossessed India, setting up a brilliant run into the circle where Arthur de Sloover set up Nicolas de Kerpel to score. Kerpel sneaked the ball past India`s vigilant custodian Sreejesh, into the extreme right corner of the post. The goal fetched the hosts a much-needed equaliser as they built on this attack to create many more opportunities in the following minutes. The hosts succeeded in extending their lead when they were awarded a PC after a foot foul by Indian defenders inside their circle. Alexander Hendrickx was on target firing the ball past India`s PC defence. With just five minutes left for the final hooter, India found a fine opportunity when they won a PC after a good video referral call. But dragflick specialist Harmanpreet`s aim to net the top of the post was pushed away by Belgium`s experienced goalie Vanasch. With just minutes left before the final hooter, Belgium put India under pressure when they drove into the striking circle. This was when a desperate body tackle by Sreejesh saw India concede a penalty stroke which was converted by Hendrickx with ease. Though, India fought back to the final second, with Manpreet Singh setting up India`s second goal when he assisted Vivek Sagar in the circle. A quick-thinking Vivek pushed the ball to Mandeep Singh who deflected the ball past Belgium`s keeper to narrow the lead to 2-3. But unfortunately, with just 30 seconds left, India`s excellent fight back ended in disappointment.

FIH Hockey Pro League: Olympic Champions Belgium beat India 3-2 in a hard-fought contest

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated experienced striker Rani on completing 250 International Caps. She achieved this incredible milestone during India`s match against Belgium in the FIH Hockey Pro League encounter in Antwerp, Belgium.

Rani, who has been on a long injury layoff after the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, is back in the reckoning with her first appearance in over ten months for Team India. An emotional Rani, who was feted by Indian Women`s Team chief coach Janneke Schopman ahead of the game, said, "It has been a very challenging year for me dealing with the prolonged injury but the one thing that kept me going was the desire to wear India jersey once again."

"I have worked very hard for this moment and I am very grateful to Hockey India and Sports Authority of India for their continued support and allowing me to work with the best physio during my rehabilitation process. I am also very grateful to the entire coaching staff and my teammates who have constantly motivated me, supported me over the past year."

"This is a very special moment for me. I consider this as a second innings in my career and it is doubly special that I am making a comeback to play my 250th match for the country against a strong opponent like Belgium. It is indeed a milestone to remember," added Rani.

In a career spanning over 12 years, Rani has led the Indian team to many successes including the historic fourth place finish at the Tokyo Olympics last year. She made her international debut in 2009 Champions Challenge at a tender age of 15, becoming the youngest player to represent the national team.

Hailing from Shahbaad Markanda in Haryana, she became the first Indian Women`s Hockey player to be nominated for the FIH Women`s Young Player of the Year Award.

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She was also given the "Best Young Player of the Tournament" award at the 2010 Women`s Hockey World Cup in Argentina. It was under her Captaincy that India created history as they won the Women`s Asia Cup in 2017 after 13 long years. Under her Captaincy, the team qualified for the Quarter Finals of the Vitality Hockey Women`s World Cup London 2018 and also won the Silver Medal at the 2018 Asian Games.

Rani was also felicitated with the Arjuna Award in 2016, World Games Athlete of the Year 2019, Hockey India Award for Best Women Player of the Year 2019, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2020 and Padma Shri Award 2020. She had also led the team to victory in the 2019 FIH Series Finals and was a catalyst in ensuring the Indian team made it to back-to-back Olympic Games with her stupendous performance in the FIH Olympic Qualifier in front of home crowd in Bhubaneswar where they beat USA.

Congratulating Rani, chief coach Janneke Schopman said, "Rani`s incredible journey from a very difficult economic circumstances back home in Shahbaad to becoming one of the most successful hockey players of her time has inspired many young players in India. She has worked very hard over the past year to earn back her India jersey, after a prolonged injury break. She is a very determined and hardworking player and I wish her the very best as well as congratulate her on achieving this incredible feat."

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated experienced striker Rani on completing 250 International Caps. She achieved this incredible milestone during India`s match against Belgium in the FIH Hockey Pro League encounter in Antwerp, Belgium.

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated experienced striker Rani on completing 250 International Caps. She achieved this incredible milestone during India`s match against Belgium in the FIH Hockey Pro League encounter in Antwerp, Belgium. Rani, who has been on a long injury layoff after the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, is back in the reckoning with her first appearance in over ten months for Team India. An emotional Rani, who was feted by Indian Women`s Team chief coach Janneke Schopman ahead of the game, said, "It has been a very challenging year for me dealing with the prolonged injury but the one thing that kept me going was the desire to wear India jersey once again." "I have worked very hard for this moment and I am very grateful to Hockey India and Sports Authority of India for their continued support and allowing me to work with the best physio during my rehabilitation process. I am also very grateful to the entire coaching staff and my teammates who have constantly motivated me, supported me over the past year." "This is a very special moment for me. I consider this as a second innings in my career and it is doubly special that I am making a comeback to play my 250th match for the country against a strong opponent like Belgium. It is indeed a milestone to remember," added Rani. In a career spanning over 12 years, Rani has led the Indian team to many successes including the historic fourth place finish at the Tokyo Olympics last year. She made her international debut in 2009 Champions Challenge at a tender age of 15, becoming the youngest player to represent the national team. Hailing from Shahbaad Markanda in Haryana, she became the first Indian Women`s Hockey player to be nominated for the FIH Women`s Young Player of the Year Award. ALSO READ | India's star teenager GM R Praggnanandhaa wins Norway Chess Open She was also given the "Best Young Player of the Tournament" award at the 2010 Women`s Hockey World Cup in Argentina. It was under her Captaincy that India created history as they won the Women`s Asia Cup in 2017 after 13 long years. Under her Captaincy, the team qualified for the Quarter Finals of the Vitality Hockey Women`s World Cup London 2018 and also won the Silver Medal at the 2018 Asian Games. Rani was also felicitated with the Arjuna Award in 2016, World Games Athlete of the Year 2019, Hockey India Award for Best Women Player of the Year 2019, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2020 and Padma Shri Award 2020. She had also led the team to victory in the 2019 FIH Series Finals and was a catalyst in ensuring the Indian team made it to back-to-back Olympic Games with her stupendous performance in the FIH Olympic Qualifier in front of home crowd in Bhubaneswar where they beat USA. Congratulating Rani, chief coach Janneke Schopman said, "Rani`s incredible journey from a very difficult economic circumstances back home in Shahbaad to becoming one of the most successful hockey players of her time has inspired many young players in India. She has worked very hard over the past year to earn back her India jersey, after a prolonged injury break. She is a very determined and hardworking player and I wish her the very best as well as congratulate her on achieving this incredible feat."

Hockey India congratulates women's team captain Rani Rampal as she completes 250 international caps

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

Indian men`s hockey team missed out on a chance to reach the Hero Asia Cup 2022 Final after playing out a thrilling 4-4 draw against Korea at the GBK Sports Complex Hockey Stadium here on Tuesday. With Korea and Malaysia leading on goal difference in the Super 4s Pool Table, India needed to win the match to reach the Final. The contest went right down to the wire with India giving a tough fight till the final whistle. 
 
Nilam Sanjeep Xess (9`), Maninder Singh (21`), Sheshe Gowda BM (37`), and Mareeswaran Shakthivel (37`) scored the goals for India, while Jang Jonghyun (13`), Ji Woo Cheon (18`), Kim Jung Hoo (28`), and Jung Manjae (44`) scored the goals for Korea in the tight contest. India will now take on Japan in the Bronze-medal match on Wednesday. 
 
The match started with an attacking move from India as Dipsan Tirkey came from the left flanks to pass the ball to Pawan Rajbhar inside the circle. But the Korean defence was quick to avert the danger. 
 
A Penalty Corner opportunity minutes later taken by Nilam Sanjeep Xess was again defended well by Korea, but India continued to threaten from the right channel. Nilam Sanjeep Xess received another chance to score from a PC a couple of minutes later, and this time, he converted to give India a 1-0 lead. But Korea drew level immediately with Jang Jonghyun scoring from a PC before the close of the first quarter. 
 
India launched an attacking move straight away in the second quarter with Dipsan Tirkey hitting a shot on target, only to be saved by Korean goalkeeper Kim Jaehyeon. Ji Woo Cheon doubled Korea`s lead, hitting the ball past Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera from close quarters. Maninder Singh drew level minutes later, scoring a goal off a rebound from a Penalty Corner.

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A counter-attacking move from India stunned the Korean defence as Sheshe Gowda BM put the ball into the nets to put India back in the lead. Kim Jung Hoo drew level once again, scoring a goal from an awkward angle, as the match went to halftime with the scoreline reading India 3-3 Korea. 
 
India began cautiously in the second half, holding on to ball possession at the start of the third quarter. The Korean defence was caught off guard again in the 37th minute as Sheshe Gowda BM made an excellent cross inside the circle for Mareeswaran Shakthivel, who tapped the ball into the back of the nets to give India a 4-3 lead. Jung Manjae drew the score level after hitting the ball past Suraj Karkera, and the match went to the final quarter with the scoreline levelled at 4-4. 
 
India stitched an attacking move straight away in the final quarter with Vishnukant Singh passing the ball to Karthi Selvam inside the circle. But Karthi`s cross towards SV Sunil in front of the goal, just went past the Indian veteran. 
 
As the clock started winding down, India started showing an urgency in attack, while Korea sat down deep in their half to defend India`s strings of attack. India received a chance to score a late goal in the last minute as Pawan Rajbhar sent a long pass inside the circle towards Uttam Singh. But the Indian player was unable to get his stick on to the ball and the match ended in a draw.&nbsp;

Indian men`s hockey team missed out on a chance to reach the Hero Asia Cup 2022 Final after playing out a thrilling 4-4 draw against Korea at the GBK Sports Complex Hockey Stadium here on Tuesday.

Indian men`s hockey team missed out on a chance to reach the Hero Asia Cup 2022 Final after playing out a thrilling 4-4 draw against Korea at the GBK Sports Complex Hockey Stadium here on Tuesday. With Korea and Malaysia leading on goal difference in the Super 4s Pool Table, India needed to win the match to reach the Final. The contest went right down to the wire with India giving a tough fight till the final whistle. Nilam Sanjeep Xess (9`), Maninder Singh (21`), Sheshe Gowda BM (37`), and Mareeswaran Shakthivel (37`) scored the goals for India, while Jang Jonghyun (13`), Ji Woo Cheon (18`), Kim Jung Hoo (28`), and Jung Manjae (44`) scored the goals for Korea in the tight contest. India will now take on Japan in the Bronze-medal match on Wednesday. The match started with an attacking move from India as Dipsan Tirkey came from the left flanks to pass the ball to Pawan Rajbhar inside the circle. But the Korean defence was quick to avert the danger. A Penalty Corner opportunity minutes later taken by Nilam Sanjeep Xess was again defended well by Korea, but India continued to threaten from the right channel. Nilam Sanjeep Xess received another chance to score from a PC a couple of minutes later, and this time, he converted to give India a 1-0 lead. But Korea drew level immediately with Jang Jonghyun scoring from a PC before the close of the first quarter. India launched an attacking move straight away in the second quarter with Dipsan Tirkey hitting a shot on target, only to be saved by Korean goalkeeper Kim Jaehyeon. Ji Woo Cheon doubled Korea`s lead, hitting the ball past Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera from close quarters. Maninder Singh drew level minutes later, scoring a goal off a rebound from a Penalty Corner. ALSO READ | India get off the mark at shooting World Cup with team gold in women's 10m air rifle A counter-attacking move from India stunned the Korean defence as Sheshe Gowda BM put the ball into the nets to put India back in the lead. Kim Jung Hoo drew level once again, scoring a goal from an awkward angle, as the match went to halftime with the scoreline reading India 3-3 Korea. India began cautiously in the second half, holding on to ball possession at the start of the third quarter. The Korean defence was caught off guard again in the 37th minute as Sheshe Gowda BM made an excellent cross inside the circle for Mareeswaran Shakthivel, who tapped the ball into the back of the nets to give India a 4-3 lead. Jung Manjae drew the score level after hitting the ball past Suraj Karkera, and the match went to the final quarter with the scoreline levelled at 4-4. India stitched an attacking move straight away in the final quarter with Vishnukant Singh passing the ball to Karthi Selvam inside the circle. But Karthi`s cross towards SV Sunil in front of the goal, just went past the Indian veteran. As the clock started winding down, India started showing an urgency in attack, while Korea sat down deep in their half to defend India`s strings of attack. India received a chance to score a late goal in the last minute as Pawan Rajbhar sent a long pass inside the circle towards Uttam Singh. But the Indian player was unable to get his stick on to the ball and the match ended in a draw.

Asia Cup hockey: India play out 4-4 intense draw vs Korea, to lock horns with Japan in bronze-medal tie

India almost clinched the title round berth before Razie Rahim turned out to be Malaysia's saviour with a hat-trick in an enthralling 3-3 draw in a 'Super 4' encounter of Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Sunday.

Rahim (12th, 21st, 56th minutes) converted three penalty corners for Malaysia, while India made a valiant fightback after being two goals down, scoring through Vishnukant Singh (32nd), SV Sunil (53rd) and Nilam Sanjeep Xess (55th).

India had earlier defeated Japan 2-1 in their first match on Saturday.

Meanwhile in the other Super 4 league match, South Korea defeated Japan 3-1 to move to four points. South Korea had earlier drawn 2-2 against Malaysia in their first match.

As the Super 4's table stands, South Korea with a goal difference of +2 (5-3) are on top of the table with India (GD) +1 (5-4) are placed second.

Japan with two defeats have no chance of making it to the final while Malaysia (GD) 0 (5-5) have an outside chance if they can beat Japan by a comprehensive margin (minimum 2 goals) provided India and South Korea match ends in a draw.

On the day, Malaysia started brightly and put the Indian defence under sustain pressure.

Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera was brought to action in the sixth minute when he made a fine save to deny Muhammad Hassan's reverse hit.

Malaysia earned a penalty corner from the resultant move but Karkera positioned himself perfectly to keep out Faizal Saari's try.

It was all Malaysia in the first quarter as the Indian team failed to get a single shot on target. 
Malaysia's consistent pressure secured them another penalty corner in the 12th minute and this time

Rahim beat Karkera with a powerful low flick to the right bottom corner of the board.

The Indians upped their game in the second quarter and created a few chances but that didn't result in a goal.

Malaysia, on the other hand, secured another penalty corner in the 21st minute and once again Rahim was bang on target as India conceded second goal of the match.

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A minute later, India goalie Karkera came out of his line to narrow down the angle and deny Saari from close range.

Trailing by two goals, the Indians stepped up the pressure after the change of ends and pulled a goal back when Vishnukant converted from a rebound after the team got its first penalty corner.

India secured another short corner in the third quarter but Malaysian goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman came to his side's rescue.

The 'Men in Blue' created a few more chances in the third quarter but lacked the decisive touch in the attacking third.

India secured back-to-back penalty corners in the 49th minute but Dipsan Tirkey failed to get past Haifizuddin, who was a rock under Malaysian post.

India drew level in the 53rd minute, courtesy Pawan Rajbhar's pivotal presence in the mid-field, where he snatched the ball from an opposition player and then selflessly set it up for Sunil, who scored with a fierce shot from an acute angle.

Two minutes later, India took the lead for the first time in the match when Nilam Sanjeep converted a penalty corner.

But India's joy was shortlived as Malaysia drew level a minute later, courtesy Rahim's well deserved hat-trick.

India almost clinched the title round berth before Razie Rahim turned out to be Malaysia's saviour with a hat-trick in an enthralling 3-3 draw in a 'Super 4' encounter of Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Sunday.

India almost clinched the title round berth before Razie Rahim turned out to be Malaysia's saviour with a hat-trick in an enthralling 3-3 draw in a 'Super 4' encounter of Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Sunday. Rahim (12th, 21st, 56th minutes) converted three penalty corners for Malaysia, while India made a valiant fightback after being two goals down, scoring through Vishnukant Singh (32nd), SV Sunil (53rd) and Nilam Sanjeep Xess (55th). India had earlier defeated Japan 2-1 in their first match on Saturday. Meanwhile in the other Super 4 league match, South Korea defeated Japan 3-1 to move to four points. South Korea had earlier drawn 2-2 against Malaysia in their first match. As the Super 4's table stands, South Korea with a goal difference of +2 (5-3) are on top of the table with India (GD) +1 (5-4) are placed second. Japan with two defeats have no chance of making it to the final while Malaysia (GD) 0 (5-5) have an outside chance if they can beat Japan by a comprehensive margin (minimum 2 goals) provided India and South Korea match ends in a draw. On the day, Malaysia started brightly and put the Indian defence under sustain pressure. Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera was brought to action in the sixth minute when he made a fine save to deny Muhammad Hassan's reverse hit. Malaysia earned a penalty corner from the resultant move but Karkera positioned himself perfectly to keep out Faizal Saari's try. It was all Malaysia in the first quarter as the Indian team failed to get a single shot on target. Malaysia's consistent pressure secured them another penalty corner in the 12th minute and this time Rahim beat Karkera with a powerful low flick to the right bottom corner of the board. The Indians upped their game in the second quarter and created a few chances but that didn't result in a goal. Malaysia, on the other hand, secured another penalty corner in the 21st minute and once again Rahim was bang on target as India conceded second goal of the match. Also read | GT vs RR, IPL 2022 final live updates: Sanju Samson wins toss, RR opt to bat A minute later, India goalie Karkera came out of his line to narrow down the angle and deny Saari from close range. Trailing by two goals, the Indians stepped up the pressure after the change of ends and pulled a goal back when Vishnukant converted from a rebound after the team got its first penalty corner. India secured another short corner in the third quarter but Malaysian goalkeeper Hafizuddin Othman came to his side's rescue. The 'Men in Blue' created a few more chances in the third quarter but lacked the decisive touch in the attacking third. India secured back-to-back penalty corners in the 49th minute but Dipsan Tirkey failed to get past Haifizuddin, who was a rock under Malaysian post. India drew level in the 53rd minute, courtesy Pawan Rajbhar's pivotal presence in the mid-field, where he snatched the ball from an opposition player and then selflessly set it up for Sunil, who scored with a fierce shot from an acute angle. Two minutes later, India took the lead for the first time in the match when Nilam Sanjeep converted a penalty corner. But India's joy was shortlived as Malaysia drew level a minute later, courtesy Rahim's well deserved hat-trick.

Malaysia hold India to 3-3 draw but Sardar Singh's men inch closer to final

The Indian men's hockey team scored two fantastic field goals to beat Japan 2-1 in its first Super 4 league match and avenge its loss in the pool stage of the Asia Cup here on Saturday.

The defending champions, who lost 2-5 against Japan in the pool stage, scored two eye-catching field goals through Manjeet (8th minute) and Pawan Rajbhar (35th) to register a narrow win.

Japan's lone goal came from a penalty corner through Takuma Niwa in the 18th minute.

Japan threatened India initially and secured a penalty corner as early as in the opening minute but the Indians thwarted the danger.

The Indians grew in confidence and got their footing as the match progressed.

It was a moment of brilliance from Manjeet that handed India the lead. He made a brilliant solo run down the left flank after receiving a pass from Pawan Rajbhar and used 3D skills to perfection to beat Takashi Yoshikawa under the Japanese bar.

Maninder Singh earned India a penalty corner in the 13th minute but Nilam Sanjeep Xess' effort was saved by the Japanese defence.

As was the case in the first quarter, the Japanese started the second 15 minutes on a promising note and secured a penalty corner in the 18th minute from which Takuma Niwas scored from a rebound after Ken Nagayoshi's initial flick was saved by Indian goalkeeper Karkera.

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Pepped up by the goal, Japan continued to put pressure on the Indian defence and earned two more penalty corners, which the Indian defence kept at bay.

Minutes later, Karthi Selvam missed a golden chance as he failed to get past Japanese goalie Yoshikawa from one-one-one situation.

Rajbhar restored India's lead five minutes into the second half, slotting home from close range after being set up by Uttam Singh's brilliant stick work.

Five minutes later, India conceded another penalty corner but the Japanese failed to capitalise on the chance.

Trailing by a goal, the Japanese mounted relentless pressure on the Indian citadel but the Birendra Lakra-led backline stood firm to keep their lead intact.

Just three minutes from the final hooter, Japan secured a penalty corner but the Indians defended in numbers to register the win.

India will play Malaysia in their next Super 4 stage match on Sunday.

Meanwhile, in the other Super 4 match of the day, South Korea and Malaysia played out a 2-2 draw. 
In the Super 4s, India, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia will play each other once with the top two teams progressing to the final.

The Indian men's hockey team scored two fantastic field goals to beat Japan 2-1 in its first Super 4 league match and avenge its loss in the pool stage of the Asia Cup here on Saturday.

The Indian men's hockey team scored two fantastic field goals to beat Japan 2-1 in its first Super 4 league match and avenge its loss in the pool stage of the Asia Cup here on Saturday. The defending champions, who lost 2-5 against Japan in the pool stage, scored two eye-catching field goals through Manjeet (8th minute) and Pawan Rajbhar (35th) to register a narrow win. Japan's lone goal came from a penalty corner through Takuma Niwa in the 18th minute. Japan threatened India initially and secured a penalty corner as early as in the opening minute but the Indians thwarted the danger. The Indians grew in confidence and got their footing as the match progressed. It was a moment of brilliance from Manjeet that handed India the lead. He made a brilliant solo run down the left flank after receiving a pass from Pawan Rajbhar and used 3D skills to perfection to beat Takashi Yoshikawa under the Japanese bar. Maninder Singh earned India a penalty corner in the 13th minute but Nilam Sanjeep Xess' effort was saved by the Japanese defence. As was the case in the first quarter, the Japanese started the second 15 minutes on a promising note and secured a penalty corner in the 18th minute from which Takuma Niwas scored from a rebound after Ken Nagayoshi's initial flick was saved by Indian goalkeeper Karkera. Also read | 'Should just pack his bat into his bag': Vaughan's interesting advice to Kohli Pepped up by the goal, Japan continued to put pressure on the Indian defence and earned two more penalty corners, which the Indian defence kept at bay. Minutes later, Karthi Selvam missed a golden chance as he failed to get past Japanese goalie Yoshikawa from one-one-one situation. Rajbhar restored India's lead five minutes into the second half, slotting home from close range after being set up by Uttam Singh's brilliant stick work. Five minutes later, India conceded another penalty corner but the Japanese failed to capitalise on the chance. Trailing by a goal, the Japanese mounted relentless pressure on the Indian citadel but the Birendra Lakra-led backline stood firm to keep their lead intact. Just three minutes from the final hooter, Japan secured a penalty corner but the Indians defended in numbers to register the win. India will play Malaysia in their next Super 4 stage match on Sunday. Meanwhile, in the other Super 4 match of the day, South Korea and Malaysia played out a 2-2 draw. In the Super 4s, India, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia will play each other once with the top two teams progressing to the final.

Asia Cup hockey: India beat Japan 2-1 in first Super 4 league match, avenge pool loss

A new-look Indian team paid for its inexperience and profligacy with Asian champions Japan soundly thrashing them 5-2 in a group A league match of the men's Asia Cup hockey championship here on Tuesday. Having drawn against Pakistan in the opening game, India's chances after this defeat will be badly dented as even a big win against Indonesia in the last game might not be enough for qualification to the knock-out stages.

Ken Nagayoshi, Kosei Kawabe (twice), Ryomi Ooka and Koji Yamasaki scored for Japan while Pawan Rajbhar and Uttam Singh found the target for the Indians. However, the younger crop of players didn't measure up against the Japanese, who looked more organised and hit India repeatedly on the counters.

The two seniors -- Birendra Lakra and SV Sunil -- looked well past their prime and couldn't make any tangible difference with their performances.

"First two quarters were very tough because we didn't get into any rhythm. We got better in the last two quarters but didn't create many chances," said Lakra, the India captain.

"In the final quarter, we lost our defensive structure and conceded a couple of goals. Also, we lost two men and that had an effect," Lakra added.

India could have gone ahead in the fifth minute of the first half itself when 20-year-old Karthi Selvam kept an inch perfect cross from wide left for veteran SV Sunil, who was inches short of laying his stick for a tap-in. The first quarter was all about trying to get control of the midfield with rookie Indian players losing a lot of possession during the phase of play.

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But, to their delight, the Japanese also failed to make too many inroads save one penalty corner, which was well-saved by a diving Indian custodian Suraj Karkera. However, in the second quarter central midfielder Raj Kumar took a crack at goal from the edge of the striking circle, which was saved by Japan goalie Koji Yamasaki and, to India's horror, the ball found Sunil's boots as he was lurking inside the 'D'.

But India suddenly fizzled out in the second quarter after that initial spark, even as the Japanese upped their ante and earned two more penalty corners -- the first of which found drag-flicker Yoshiki Kirishita off the mark as his powerful drag-flick sailed well over the cross-piece.

However, in the 24th minute, Ken Nagayoshi converted the penalty corner with a powerful angular drive that beat a diving Suraj all ends up. There came a chance of an equaliser when Nilam Sanjeep Xess' assist found Raj Kumar, whose reverse hit was saved by the keeper.

The problem with the inexperienced outfit was its propensity to attack primarily down the middle-third instead of spreading the game onto the wide flanks. The ageing Sunil's poor outing also didn't help the Indians much as the team seemed to lack the art of playing the pressing game to earn the penalty corners unlike the Japanese, who were brilliant on the counter during the last two quarters of the game.

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It was in the 40th minute Japan made it 2-0 in a counter-attack with Kosei Kawabi snatching the ball from the Indian midfield and sprinting down the right wing running left-back Dipsan Tirkey ragged with his speed.

It was a spectacular goal with Kawabi having his back towards the Indian goal with his markers Dipsan and Nilam closing in on him. With a body feint, Kawabi wrong-footed goalkeeper Suraj and then smashed it home from an acute angle.

India found something going their way in the dying moments of the third quarter when veteran Birendra Lakra kept a powerful assist inside the striking circle melee and the big-bodied centre forward Pawan Rajbhar was in the right place to lay his stick for a perfect deflection that found the top corner of the net.

The final quarter once again saw the Indians going all out and conceding a goal against the run of play in the 49th minute. With all but one players on the overlap, Ryosei Kato got a cross-field pass on the wide right and he cut inside with goalkeeper Suraj at his mercy, and Ryomo Ooka waiting for an open goal. Kato passed it to Ooka, who put it gleefully to make it 3-1.

However, India equalised with the very next move when Rajbhar sent a cross from right and forward Uttam Singh tapped it in from close range to make it 2-3.

But there was more bad luck for India as they suddenly lost the numerical advantage with temporary suspensions of Rajbhar and Karthi.

The nine versus eleven became a lopsided contest as Japan repeatedly used the right flank to launch their attack. Koji Yamasaki got his goal in the 54th minute with a touch-in after none of the Indian defenders cared to intercept a cross from the wide right.

The Indian resistance had ended and the fifth goal was the final nail in the coffin -- Kawabe slotting home in the 56th minute after his first shot rebounded off the goalkeeper.

A new-look Indian team paid for its inexperience and profligacy with Asian champions Japan soundly thrashing them 5-2 in a group A league match of the men's Asia Cup hockey championship here on Tuesday.

A new-look Indian team paid for its inexperience and profligacy with Asian champions Japan soundly thrashing them 5-2 in a group A league match of the men's Asia Cup hockey championship here on Tuesday. Having drawn against Pakistan in the opening game, India's chances after this defeat will be badly dented as even a big win against Indonesia in the last game might not be enough for qualification to the knock-out stages. Ken Nagayoshi, Kosei Kawabe (twice), Ryomi Ooka and Koji Yamasaki scored for Japan while Pawan Rajbhar and Uttam Singh found the target for the Indians. However, the younger crop of players didn't measure up against the Japanese, who looked more organised and hit India repeatedly on the counters. The two seniors -- Birendra Lakra and SV Sunil -- looked well past their prime and couldn't make any tangible difference with their performances. "First two quarters were very tough because we didn't get into any rhythm. We got better in the last two quarters but didn't create many chances," said Lakra, the India captain. "In the final quarter, we lost our defensive structure and conceded a couple of goals. Also, we lost two men and that had an effect," Lakra added. India could have gone ahead in the fifth minute of the first half itself when 20-year-old Karthi Selvam kept an inch perfect cross from wide left for veteran SV Sunil, who was inches short of laying his stick for a tap-in. The first quarter was all about trying to get control of the midfield with rookie Indian players losing a lot of possession during the phase of play. Also Read: Boxing world champion Nikhat Zareen urges parents to change mentality towards daughters But, to their delight, the Japanese also failed to make too many inroads save one penalty corner, which was well-saved by a diving Indian custodian Suraj Karkera. However, in the second quarter central midfielder Raj Kumar took a crack at goal from the edge of the striking circle, which was saved by Japan goalie Koji Yamasaki and, to India's horror, the ball found Sunil's boots as he was lurking inside the 'D'. But India suddenly fizzled out in the second quarter after that initial spark, even as the Japanese upped their ante and earned two more penalty corners -- the first of which found drag-flicker Yoshiki Kirishita off the mark as his powerful drag-flick sailed well over the cross-piece. However, in the 24th minute, Ken Nagayoshi converted the penalty corner with a powerful angular drive that beat a diving Suraj all ends up. There came a chance of an equaliser when Nilam Sanjeep Xess' assist found Raj Kumar, whose reverse hit was saved by the keeper. The problem with the inexperienced outfit was its propensity to attack primarily down the middle-third instead of spreading the game onto the wide flanks. The ageing Sunil's poor outing also didn't help the Indians much as the team seemed to lack the art of playing the pressing game to earn the penalty corners unlike the Japanese, who were brilliant on the counter during the last two quarters of the game. Also Read: Chessable Masters: India's teen sensation Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa seals place in final It was in the 40th minute Japan made it 2-0 in a counter-attack with Kosei Kawabi snatching the ball from the Indian midfield and sprinting down the right wing running left-back Dipsan Tirkey ragged with his speed. It was a spectacular goal with Kawabi having his back towards the Indian goal with his markers Dipsan and Nilam closing in on him. With a body feint, Kawabi wrong-footed goalkeeper Suraj and then smashed it home from an acute angle. India found something going their way in the dying moments of the third quarter when veteran Birendra Lakra kept a powerful assist inside the striking circle melee and the big-bodied centre forward Pawan Rajbhar was in the right place to lay his stick for a perfect deflection that found the top corner of the net. The final quarter once again saw the Indians going all out and conceding a goal against the run of play in the 49th minute. With all but one players on the overlap, Ryosei Kato got a cross-field pass on the wide right and he cut inside with goalkeeper Suraj at his mercy, and Ryomo Ooka waiting for an open goal. Kato passed it to Ooka, who put it gleefully to make it 3-1. However, India equalised with the very next move when Rajbhar sent a cross from right and forward Uttam Singh tapped it in from close range to make it 2-3. But there was more bad luck for India as they suddenly lost the numerical advantage with temporary suspensions of Rajbhar and Karthi. The nine versus eleven became a lopsided contest as Japan repeatedly used the right flank to launch their attack. Koji Yamasaki got his goal in the 54th minute with a touch-in after none of the Indian defenders cared to intercept a cross from the wide right. The Indian resistance had ended and the fifth goal was the final nail in the coffin -- Kawabe slotting home in the 56th minute after his first shot rebounded off the goalkeeper.

Asia Cup 2022: Japan outclass India 5-2, Sardar Singh-coached team looking at exit door

A young Indian men`s hockey team opened its title defence with a 1-1 draw against arch-rivals Pakistan in their first group A match of the Asia Cup at the GBK Stadium here on Monday. Selvam Karthi (eighth minute) scored his first international goal for India, while Pakistan equalised through Abdul Rana`s (59th) penalty corner strike. In the first quarter, there were several penalty corners for both teams. While Pakistan secured two, India managed three and scored of the last one. India took the lead in the eighth minute through debutant Karthi, who scored his first international goal from a penalty corner. After the start of the second quarter, India had the first shy at the goal but an alert Pakistan goalkeeper Akmal Hussain made a quick save from close range to keep out Pawan Rajbhar`s effort.

India secured a penalty corner in the second quarter in the 21st minute but the title holders failed to convert the chance into another goal. In the 28th minute, Pakistan too got a penalty corner, their third, but they again failed to stop the push and wasted a bright chance. After the change of ends, Pakistan started on an attacking note, albeit for a brief period, and secured a penalty corner but Rizwan Ali`s shot went wide. India`s goalkeeper Suraj Karkera then saved an effort from Abdul Rana from close quarters. Indians again took control of the proceedings and secured a handful of penalty corners but they failed to get past an alert Hussain in front of Pakistan goal and the scores remained tied after the third quarter.

With little over a minute to go for the final hooter, India conceded a penalty corner and Rana scored from a rebound to draw parity. "I think India could not read our strategies. I am quite satisfied with how we performed and played disciplined hockey with good structure," Pakistan`s newly-appointed coach Siegfried Aikman said.In another match of the day, Japan beat hosts Indonesia 9-0. As many as four goals were scored by Koji Yamasaki (15`, 21`, 22`, 35`). Yoshiki Krishita (7`) scored the first goal for Japan followed by Ken Nagayoshi (8`), Ryoma Ooka (10`), Ryosei Kato and Takuma Niwa (33`).

A young Indian men`s hockey team opened its title defence with a 1-1 draw against arch-rivals Pakistan in their first group A match of the Asia Cup at the GBK Stadium here on Monday.

A young Indian men`s hockey team opened its title defence with a 1-1 draw against arch-rivals Pakistan in their first group A match of the Asia Cup at the GBK Stadium here on Monday. Selvam Karthi (eighth minute) scored his first international goal for India, while Pakistan equalised through Abdul Rana`s (59th) penalty corner strike. In the first quarter, there were several penalty corners for both teams. While Pakistan secured two, India managed three and scored of the last one. India took the lead in the eighth minute through debutant Karthi, who scored his first international goal from a penalty corner. After the start of the second quarter, India had the first shy at the goal but an alert Pakistan goalkeeper Akmal Hussain made a quick save from close range to keep out Pawan Rajbhar`s effort. India secured a penalty corner in the second quarter in the 21st minute but the title holders failed to convert the chance into another goal. In the 28th minute, Pakistan too got a penalty corner, their third, but they again failed to stop the push and wasted a bright chance. After the change of ends, Pakistan started on an attacking note, albeit for a brief period, and secured a penalty corner but Rizwan Ali`s shot went wide. India`s goalkeeper Suraj Karkera then saved an effort from Abdul Rana from close quarters. Indians again took control of the proceedings and secured a handful of penalty corners but they failed to get past an alert Hussain in front of Pakistan goal and the scores remained tied after the third quarter. With little over a minute to go for the final hooter, India conceded a penalty corner and Rana scored from a rebound to draw parity. "I think India could not read our strategies. I am quite satisfied with how we performed and played disciplined hockey with good structure," Pakistan`s newly-appointed coach Siegfried Aikman said.In another match of the day, Japan beat hosts Indonesia 9-0. As many as four goals were scored by Koji Yamasaki (15`, 21`, 22`, 35`). Yoshiki Krishita (7`) scored the first goal for Japan followed by Ken Nagayoshi (8`), Ryoma Ooka (10`), Ryosei Kato and Takuma Niwa (33`).

Asia Cup 2022: India concede late goal vs arch-rivals Pakistan, riveting tie ends in 1-1 draw

The Indian women's hockey team's dream run in the FIH Junior World Cup came to a screeching halt after it suffered a 0-3 defeat to three-time champions, the Netherlands in the semifinals, here on Sunday.

India, whose best finish in the tournament came in the 2013 edition where they finished as bronze medallists, were eying a maiden berth in the summit clash of the event.

The team so far produced high-quality hockey to march into the last-four round unbeaten.

But it was not to be as the Netherlands scored three field goals through Tessa Beetsma (12th minute), Luna Fokke (53rd) and Jip Dicke (54th) to emerge winners and sail into the their fourth consecutive final.

Contrary to the result, the Indians started on a bright note and dominated the early share of exchanges.

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Mumtaz Khan, India's highest scorer in the tournament so far with six goals, came close to giving her side the lead early on but her shot from skipper Salima Tete's pass hit the post.

The Indians pressed hard on the Dutch goal in the first quarter and secured as many as three penalty corners but they failed in final execution.

The Netherlands scored against the run of play in the 12th minute through a fantastic field effort from Beetsma, in what has been described as the best goal of the tournament as it involved as many as 20 passes.

The goal changed the complexion of the match completely as from there on the Dutch took control of the proceedings and put the Indian defence under pressure with relentless raids, which included three unsuccessful penalty corner.

After the change of ends, the Dutch completely dominated the proceedings and the Indians were content in playing the waiting game, defending in numbers and just waiting for the opportunity to counter-attack.

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But both the teams failed in their ploy as the third quarter didn't produce any goals.

The Dutch extended their lead in the 53rd minute through Fokke's reverse hit past India custodian Bichu Devi Kharibam after receiving a brilliant cross-field pass from Noor Omrani.

A minute later, the Netherlands literally took the game away from the Indians with another field strike through Dicke, who deflected home a Beetsma reverse hit.

From there on, it was next to impossible for the Indians as the Dutch continued to dominate to take the game away and seal their place in the final.

The Indian women's hockey team's dream run in the FIH Junior World Cup came to a screeching halt after it suffered a 0-3 defeat to three-time champions, the Netherlands in the semifinals, here on Sunday.

The Indian women's hockey team's dream run in the FIH Junior World Cup came to a screeching halt after it suffered a 0-3 defeat to three-time champions, the Netherlands in the semifinals, here on Sunday. India, whose best finish in the tournament came in the 2013 edition where they finished as bronze medallists, were eying a maiden berth in the summit clash of the event. The team so far produced high-quality hockey to march into the last-four round unbeaten. But it was not to be as the Netherlands scored three field goals through Tessa Beetsma (12th minute), Luna Fokke (53rd) and Jip Dicke (54th) to emerge winners and sail into the their fourth consecutive final. Contrary to the result, the Indians started on a bright note and dominated the early share of exchanges. ALSO READ: Ramiz Raja considering resigning as PCB chief in the wake of Imran Khan's ouster as Pakistan PM Mumtaz Khan, India's highest scorer in the tournament so far with six goals, came close to giving her side the lead early on but her shot from skipper Salima Tete's pass hit the post. The Indians pressed hard on the Dutch goal in the first quarter and secured as many as three penalty corners but they failed in final execution. The Netherlands scored against the run of play in the 12th minute through a fantastic field effort from Beetsma, in what has been described as the best goal of the tournament as it involved as many as 20 passes. The goal changed the complexion of the match completely as from there on the Dutch took control of the proceedings and put the Indian defence under pressure with relentless raids, which included three unsuccessful penalty corner. After the change of ends, the Dutch completely dominated the proceedings and the Indians were content in playing the waiting game, defending in numbers and just waiting for the opportunity to counter-attack. ALSO READ: Just going play my game: Tiger Woods 'proud' of himself after battling to stay in Masters hunt But both the teams failed in their ploy as the third quarter didn't produce any goals. The Dutch extended their lead in the 53rd minute through Fokke's reverse hit past India custodian Bichu Devi Kharibam after receiving a brilliant cross-field pass from Noor Omrani. A minute later, the Netherlands literally took the game away from the Indians with another field strike through Dicke, who deflected home a Beetsma reverse hit. From there on, it was next to impossible for the Indians as the Dutch continued to dominate to take the game away and seal their place in the final.

FIH Jr Women's World Cup: India's dream run ends with 0-3 loss to clinical Netherlands in semi-final

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

Complaints of athletes participating in the Beijing winter Olympic games are piling up. In the latest, the coach of the Finland men's ice hockey team has accused China of not respecting the players' human rights besides other complaints that include the isolation conditions to confusing procedures around being allowed to leave, our next report gets you the details.

Finland hockey coach accused China of not respecting players' human rights

In an unusual development which may raise voices in support of freedom of expression, Pakistans hockey Olympian Rashid-ul-Hasan was banned for 10 years by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Thursday allegedly for his criticism of the decline of the sport in the country on a social media platform, Dawn reported. 
 
Rashid, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics gold medallist, while categorically denying the allegations of using offensive language, is considering the option to challenge the ban in the court of law. A PHF inquiry committee was constituted to see if Rashid had used abusive language against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is also the PHF patron-in-chief. 
 
The instructions in this regard were issued by PHF President Brig (Retd) Khalid Sajjad Khokhar and Secretary Asif Bajwa, said a press release issued on Thursday, the report said. After Rashid did not respond to two notices issued to him on the matter, the committee on PHF President`s instructions imposed the 10-year ban. A copy of the notification has also been sent to the National Assembly`s standing committee on sports.

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Speaking on the matter, Rashid dispelled the impression of abusive language he was alleged to have used against the Pakistan premier on any social media forum. 
 
"On social media or any other public platform, I have always given [due] respect to the Prime Minister," the 62-year-old Rashid told Dawn. 
 
"On a WhatsApp group I only said that on the container though Imran Khan was claiming that he would put the game of hockey on the right track, nothing came on the surface during the last three years. And I also said Imran will not do any good work for hockey," the Olympian remarked while giving his clarification. 
 
As a citizen of the country, Rashid added, he had the right to speak, but "I didn`t use any abusive language". 
&nbsp;Expressing his surprise over the ban announced by the PHF, Rashid said that currently he didn`t even hold many position in the federation. According to Rashid, he received the first notice from the PHF some five months ago, adding "it didn`t carry any solid material, that`s why I did not consider it serious", the report said.

In an unusual development which may raise voices in support of freedom of expression, Pakistans hockey Olympian Rashid-ul-Hasan was banned for 10 years by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Thursday allegedly for his criticism of the decline of the sport in the country on a social media platform, Dawn reported.

In an unusual development which may raise voices in support of freedom of expression, Pakistans hockey Olympian Rashid-ul-Hasan was banned for 10 years by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Thursday allegedly for his criticism of the decline of the sport in the country on a social media platform, Dawn reported. Rashid, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics gold medallist, while categorically denying the allegations of using offensive language, is considering the option to challenge the ban in the court of law. A PHF inquiry committee was constituted to see if Rashid had used abusive language against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is also the PHF patron-in-chief. The instructions in this regard were issued by PHF President Brig (Retd) Khalid Sajjad Khokhar and Secretary Asif Bajwa, said a press release issued on Thursday, the report said. After Rashid did not respond to two notices issued to him on the matter, the committee on PHF President`s instructions imposed the 10-year ban. A copy of the notification has also been sent to the National Assembly`s standing committee on sports. ALSO READ | Beijing Winter Olympics: French national rugby union coach Fabien Galthie tests positive for COVID-19 Speaking on the matter, Rashid dispelled the impression of abusive language he was alleged to have used against the Pakistan premier on any social media forum. "On social media or any other public platform, I have always given [due] respect to the Prime Minister," the 62-year-old Rashid told Dawn. "On a WhatsApp group I only said that on the container though Imran Khan was claiming that he would put the game of hockey on the right track, nothing came on the surface during the last three years. And I also said Imran will not do any good work for hockey," the Olympian remarked while giving his clarification. As a citizen of the country, Rashid added, he had the right to speak, but "I didn`t use any abusive language". Expressing his surprise over the ban announced by the PHF, Rashid said that currently he didn`t even hold many position in the federation. According to Rashid, he received the first notice from the PHF some five months ago, adding "it didn`t carry any solid material, that`s why I did not consider it serious", the report said.

Pakistan hockey Olympian pays a price for 'slamming' Imran Khan, banned for 10 years

After starting off their FIH Hockey Pro League 2021/22 campaign with a sensational 7-1 win over China, India continued their winning run in the tournament, defeating China 2-1 in a thrilling contest here at the Sultan Qaboos Complex in Muscat, Oman on Tuesday.

The Savita-led Indian side`s victory was sealed by two goals from drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur (3`, 49`), while Shumin Wang (39`) scored the sole goal for China. With the win, India climbed to the top of the points table, tied alongside The Netherlands with 6 points in two games.

India started the match on the front foot, moving quickly from back to front, bypassing China`s midfield. India managed to get an early PC in the third minute of the match which was converted by Gurjit with a low, powerful hit to give her team a 1-0 lead.

China immediately started a counter-attack, but Sushila Chanu defended well in her own circle to deny the opposition. India continued to press high in China`s half, and Vandana Katariya received a golden opportunity to score, but her shot from inside the circle went wide off the goalpost.

India kept possession for most of the first quarter, not allowing China to get any move going, and maintained their 1-0 lead in the first 15 minutes.

At the start of the 2nd quarter, China pressed high in India`s circle, but Nikki Pradhan defended well to clear the danger. In the 18th minute, Navneet Kaur tried to find Vandana Katariya inside the circle from the right flanks, but her cross went wide and India could not extend their lead.

A move from the left flank in the 26th minute saw Ishika Chaudhary trying to cross the ball to Monika who was standing in front of the goalpost. But China defended well to clear the danger once again. India faced some nervy moments in the final minute of the 2nd quarter with three China players entering the circle, but the Indian defence stood tall and maintained their 1-0 lead at Half Time.

India started the second half aggressively with Sharmila Devi getting a chance to increase the lead in the first minute of the third quarter. But her reverse hit went wide, and once again India were unable to convert the opportunity.

China started counter-attacking display, as they started moving deeper inside India`s half. A dangerous move from China from the left flank caught Indian defence off-guard as Wang Shumin struck the ball inside the empty nets to get the equaliser in the 39th minute.

A challenge on Monika inside the circle, two minutes later, earned India a Penalty Corner. But the drag-flick from Gurjit Kaur was saved by China goalkeeper.

India received another Penalty Corner a minute later. But it reaped no rewards as well, and the scoreline remained India 1-1 China by the end of third quarter. India showcased their attacking intent immediately at the start of the fourth quarter, earning a penalty corner straightaway in the 47th minute.

But Deep Grace Ekka`s dragflick went wide off the goalpost. In the 49th minute, India received their second penalty corner of the fourth quarter, and this time, Gurjit Kaur converted with another fantastic drag-flick, giving India a 2-0 lead.

China started working hard to try and find the equaliser but India kept their calm and ensured no further slip-ups. With five minutes left on the clock, India received two back-to-back penalty corners, but Deep Grace Ekka was unable to convert them into goals. India slowed down the game in the final couple of minutes, as China tried to get the ball back to get the equaliser.

But they were unable to break down India`s defence and India won the thrilling contest 2-1.The Indian Women`s Hockey team will next face off against The Netherlands on February, 19th and February 20th at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

After starting off their FIH Hockey Pro League 2021/22 campaign with a sensational 7-1 win over China, India continued their winning run in the tournament, defeating China 2-1 in a thrilling contest here at the Sultan Qaboos Complex in Muscat, Oman on Tuesday.

After starting off their FIH Hockey Pro League 2021/22 campaign with a sensational 7-1 win over China, India continued their winning run in the tournament, defeating China 2-1 in a thrilling contest here at the Sultan Qaboos Complex in Muscat, Oman on Tuesday. The Savita-led Indian side`s victory was sealed by two goals from drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur (3`, 49`), while Shumin Wang (39`) scored the sole goal for China. With the win, India climbed to the top of the points table, tied alongside The Netherlands with 6 points in two games. India started the match on the front foot, moving quickly from back to front, bypassing China`s midfield. India managed to get an early PC in the third minute of the match which was converted by Gurjit with a low, powerful hit to give her team a 1-0 lead. China immediately started a counter-attack, but Sushila Chanu defended well in her own circle to deny the opposition. India continued to press high in China`s half, and Vandana Katariya received a golden opportunity to score, but her shot from inside the circle went wide off the goalpost. India kept possession for most of the first quarter, not allowing China to get any move going, and maintained their 1-0 lead in the first 15 minutes. At the start of the 2nd quarter, China pressed high in India`s circle, but Nikki Pradhan defended well to clear the danger. In the 18th minute, Navneet Kaur tried to find Vandana Katariya inside the circle from the right flanks, but her cross went wide and India could not extend their lead. A move from the left flank in the 26th minute saw Ishika Chaudhary trying to cross the ball to Monika who was standing in front of the goalpost. But China defended well to clear the danger once again. India faced some nervy moments in the final minute of the 2nd quarter with three China players entering the circle, but the Indian defence stood tall and maintained their 1-0 lead at Half Time. India started the second half aggressively with Sharmila Devi getting a chance to increase the lead in the first minute of the third quarter. But her reverse hit went wide, and once again India were unable to convert the opportunity. China started counter-attacking display, as they started moving deeper inside India`s half. A dangerous move from China from the left flank caught Indian defence off-guard as Wang Shumin struck the ball inside the empty nets to get the equaliser in the 39th minute. A challenge on Monika inside the circle, two minutes later, earned India a Penalty Corner. But the drag-flick from Gurjit Kaur was saved by China goalkeeper. India received another Penalty Corner a minute later. But it reaped no rewards as well, and the scoreline remained India 1-1 China by the end of third quarter. India showcased their attacking intent immediately at the start of the fourth quarter, earning a penalty corner straightaway in the 47th minute. But Deep Grace Ekka`s dragflick went wide off the goalpost. In the 49th minute, India received their second penalty corner of the fourth quarter, and this time, Gurjit Kaur converted with another fantastic drag-flick, giving India a 2-0 lead. China started working hard to try and find the equaliser but India kept their calm and ensured no further slip-ups. With five minutes left on the clock, India received two back-to-back penalty corners, but Deep Grace Ekka was unable to convert them into goals. India slowed down the game in the final couple of minutes, as China tried to get the ball back to get the equaliser. But they were unable to break down India`s defence and India won the thrilling contest 2-1.The Indian Women`s Hockey team will next face off against The Netherlands on February, 19th and February 20th at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Indian women's team beat China 2-1 in FIH Hockey Pro League 2021/22 thriller

Seasoned goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who played a crucial role as India men`s team claimed a first Olympic medal in over four decades when it won bronze at last years Olympic Games in Tokyo, has been named as The World Games Athlete of the Year for 2021. 
 
In a global fan vote conducted on TheWorldGames.org, Sreejesh finished well clear at the top of the 24-strong nomination list, with his tally of 1,27,647 votes being almost twice as many as the second-placed athlete, Spa`n`s Sport Climbing ace Albert Ginés Lopez, who garnered 67,428 votes. 
 
Sreejesh becomes the second hockey player to win the award, following in the footsteps of compatriot and India w`men`s captain Rani, who took the 2019 prize, the FIH said in a release on Monday. 
 
Speaking about the Award, the shot-stopper -- who was also voted as FIH Goalkeeper of the Year for 2021 -- said: "I`m very honoured to win this award. First of all, a big thank you to FIH for nominating me for this award, and secondly thanks to all the Indian hockey lovers around the world, who voted for me.

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"By getting nominated I did my part, but the rest was done by the fans and hockey lovers. So, this award goes to them, and I think they deserve this award more than me. It`s a big moment for Indian Hockey as well because everyone in the hockey community, all the hockey federations around the world voted for me, so it`s great to see that support from the hockey family," Sreejesh, a veteran of 244 senior international matches, was quoted as saying by the FIH. 
 
The three-time Olympian further added, "Also, I am a person who doesn`t believe in ndividual awards, especially when you are part of a team. It`s not only the team of 33 players, but you have a lot of people involved behind as well, there`s coaching staff, there`s support staff, there`s a great association like Hockey India who is supporting you a lot, there`s Sports Authority of India (SAI), who are providing you with all the world-class facilities to train, there`s Odisha Government whose unwavering support helps the sport grow and flourish and there`s India Olympic Association (IOA) as well, who`re taking care of you really well. So, it`s a collective effort of a nation to get this kind of recognition." 
 
FIH Chief Executive Officer Thierry Weil said: "On behalf of the global hockey community, I`d like to wholeheartedly congratulate PR Sreejesh for this magnificent achievement. This is a great recognition for him, for his team and for hockey as a whole. We also extend our sincerest thanks to all fans who voted for him. Athletes are the best ambassadors of our sport and India`s goalkeeper certainly is a leader in this field too. We look forward to seeing him in action again in just a few days for the third edition of the FIH Hockey Pro League!"

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Congratulating Sreejesh, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate Sreejesh for winning the prestigious World Games Athlete of the Year 2021 Award. This is a very proud and special moment for India as he became the only second Indian athlete to win this honour. I would like to thank FIH, the hockey community around the world, and of course, all his fans for supporting him and voting him to win this award. It`s a big achievement for him as well as to Indian hockey." 
 
The World Games is a multi-sport event staged every four years by the International World Games Association with the support of the International Olympic Committee. The World Games are staged over a period of 11 days, with more than 30 sports in the programme. 
 
Indoor Hockey was featured as an invitational sport at The World Games in 2005, which took place in Duisburg, Germany. Hockey will have a presence with sports demonstrations during The World Games 2022, which takes place in Birmingham, the USA between July 7-17, 2022.

Seasoned goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who played a crucial role as India men`s team claimed a first Olympic medal in over four decades when it won bronze at last years Olympic Games in Tokyo, has been named as The World Games Athlete of the Year for 2021.

Seasoned goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who played a crucial role as India men`s team claimed a first Olympic medal in over four decades when it won bronze at last years Olympic Games in Tokyo, has been named as The World Games Athlete of the Year for 2021. In a global fan vote conducted on TheWorldGames.org, Sreejesh finished well clear at the top of the 24-strong nomination list, with his tally of 1,27,647 votes being almost twice as many as the second-placed athlete, Spa`n`s Sport Climbing ace Albert Ginés Lopez, who garnered 67,428 votes. Sreejesh becomes the second hockey player to win the award, following in the footsteps of compatriot and India w`men`s captain Rani, who took the 2019 prize, the FIH said in a release on Monday. Speaking about the Award, the shot-stopper -- who was also voted as FIH Goalkeeper of the Year for 2021 -- said: "I`m very honoured to win this award. First of all, a big thank you to FIH for nominating me for this award, and secondly thanks to all the Indian hockey lovers around the world, who voted for me. Read Also | Quicker Virat Kohli discovers his form, easier it will be for Rohit Sharma, says former India pacer "By getting nominated I did my part, but the rest was done by the fans and hockey lovers. So, this award goes to them, and I think they deserve this award more than me. It`s a big moment for Indian Hockey as well because everyone in the hockey community, all the hockey federations around the world voted for me, so it`s great to see that support from the hockey family," Sreejesh, a veteran of 244 senior international matches, was quoted as saying by the FIH. The three-time Olympian further added, "Also, I am a person who doesn`t believe in ndividual awards, especially when you are part of a team. It`s not only the team of 33 players, but you have a lot of people involved behind as well, there`s coaching staff, there`s support staff, there`s a great association like Hockey India who is supporting you a lot, there`s Sports Authority of India (SAI), who are providing you with all the world-class facilities to train, there`s Odisha Government whose unwavering support helps the sport grow and flourish and there`s India Olympic Association (IOA) as well, who`re taking care of you really well. So, it`s a collective effort of a nation to get this kind of recognition." FIH Chief Executive Officer Thierry Weil said: "On behalf of the global hockey community, I`d like to wholeheartedly congratulate PR Sreejesh for this magnificent achievement. This is a great recognition for him, for his team and for hockey as a whole. We also extend our sincerest thanks to all fans who voted for him. Athletes are the best ambassadors of our sport and India`s goalkeeper certainly is a leader in this field too. We look forward to seeing him in action again in just a few days for the third edition of the FIH Hockey Pro League!" Read Also | 'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith Congratulating Sreejesh, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, "On behalf of Hockey India, I congratulate Sreejesh for winning the prestigious World Games Athlete of the Year 2021 Award. This is a very proud and special moment for India as he became the only second Indian athlete to win this honour. I would like to thank FIH, the hockey community around the world, and of course, all his fans for supporting him and voting him to win this award. It`s a big achievement for him as well as to Indian hockey." The World Games is a multi-sport event staged every four years by the International World Games Association with the support of the International Olympic Committee. The World Games are staged over a period of 11 days, with more than 30 sports in the programme. Indoor Hockey was featured as an invitational sport at The World Games in 2005, which took place in Duisburg, Germany. Hockey will have a presence with sports demonstrations during The World Games 2022, which takes place in Birmingham, the USA between July 7-17, 2022.

India's PR Sreejesh wins The World Games Athlete of the Year 2021 award

The Indian women`s team made a great impact on its FIH Pro League debut on Monday, beating China 7-1 in a match played at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex here. 
 
The Indian team, which has been invited to participate in this year`s FIH Pro League edition following the withdrawal of Australia and New Zealand, came up with a brilliant performance to get the better of the Chinese in the match played after the Women`s Asia Cup in which Savita`s team had bagged a bronze medal, beating the same opponents 2-0. 
 
Relentless, talented and speedy; India`s entry into the FIH Hockey Pro League was marked by a win that showed that Janneke Schopman and her team are more than ready for the challenges ahead in FIH Hockey Pro League. 
 
It was a day of firsts in Muscat, Oman as the city hosted its first FIH Hockey Pro League match. The hockey-mad city had just played host to the 2022 Women`s Asia Cup and now two of the teams that had competed in that competition -- India (FIH World Ranking:9) and China (WR:13) - came head-to-head in the opening FIH Hockey Pro League match of 2022.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/winter-olympics-2022-covid-19-cases-rise-among-olympic-athletes-personnel-arrive-in-beijing-449160">Winter Olympics 2022: COVID-19 cases rise among Olympic athletes, personnel arrive in Beijing</a> 
 
For the Indian women, this was their first match in the FIH Hockey Pro League, following the withdrawal of Australia and New Zealand from the competition because of Covid-related travel restrictions. Ahead of the tournament head coach Janneke Schopman had spoken of the great opportunity the FIH Hockey Pro League offered her team, with the chance of regular, high-quality competition. And on Monday, the Indians showed they were ready for bigger challenges ahead in the event. 
 
In another first for India as three goals were scored from penalty strokes, the most penalty strokes to be awarded and converted in a Hockey Pro League match. 
 
India certainly hit the ground running. Two goals in the opening quarter were ample proof that the team were up for this challenge. In the fifth minute, Navneet Kaur smashed a shot past Wu Surong to give her side the lead. Just seven minutes later, a great save by skipper and goalkeeper Savita from a China penalty corner was turned to India`s advantage and the counterattack allowed Neha to double the lead. 
 
For the first 30 minutes of play, the fast-moving sequence of passes and a willingness on the part of the players to take on defenders meant India, who narrowly missed a bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics, were looking the stronger team. 
 
In the second half, China began to raise their game to match the pace with which India had started the encounter. Unfortunately, China were unable to make the pressure count and India turned another counter-attack into a goal. This time it was Katariya Vandana who put the ball past Wu on the second attempt, after her first shot rebounded, a report on the FIH`s official website said. 
 
Some slick movements and speedy passing saw China finally rewarded. The ball was moved swiftly up the pitch and Deng Xue was able to steer the ball goalwards and past Etimarpu Rajani, who had replaced Savita in the India goal. 
 
Any hope China had that this goal might change the course of the game was dismissed when India won a penalty stroke in the 47th minute. Former captain Sushila Chanu made no mistake as she stepped up and put the ball into the corner of the China goal, the report said.

Read Also |&nbsp;​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-china-reports-34-new-covid-19-cases-among-games-related-personnel-448918">Beijing Olympics: China reports 34 new COVID-19 cases among Games-related personnel</a>​​​​​​ 
 
India`s next goal came from the stick of forward Sharmila Devi. A series of passes left the China defence stranded and Sharmila was able to turn the ball into the goal for India`s fifth goal. 
 
A second penalty stroke was won by the India attack as the Chinese defence were just unable to get out of the way of the nimble stick work of Lalremsiami. Gurjit Kaur stepped up to calmly and precisely send the ball home. 
 
With eight minutes left Sushila scored her second penalty stroke of the game making the final score 7-1. 
 
Sharmila Devi was adjudged as Player of the Match. On receiving her award, the striker said: "I am very happy with that performance. We played very well and we are very excited to be playing in the FIH Hockey Pro league for the first time."

The Indian women`s team made a great impact on its FIH Pro League debut on Monday, beating China 7-1 in a match played at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex here. The Indian team, which has been invited to participate in this year`s FIH Pro League edition following the withdrawal of Australia and New Zealand, came up with a brilliant performance to get the better of the Chinese in the match played after the Women`s Asia Cup in which Savita`s team had bagged a bronze medal, beating the same opponents 2-0.

The Indian women`s team made a great impact on its FIH Pro League debut on Monday, beating China 7-1 in a match played at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex here. The Indian team, which has been invited to participate in this year`s FIH Pro League edition following the withdrawal of Australia and New Zealand, came up with a brilliant performance to get the better of the Chinese in the match played after the Women`s Asia Cup in which Savita`s team had bagged a bronze medal, beating the same opponents 2-0. Relentless, talented and speedy; India`s entry into the FIH Hockey Pro League was marked by a win that showed that Janneke Schopman and her team are more than ready for the challenges ahead in FIH Hockey Pro League. It was a day of firsts in Muscat, Oman as the city hosted its first FIH Hockey Pro League match. The hockey-mad city had just played host to the 2022 Women`s Asia Cup and now two of the teams that had competed in that competition -- India (FIH World Ranking:9) and China (WR:13) - came head-to-head in the opening FIH Hockey Pro League match of 2022. Read Also | Winter Olympics 2022: COVID-19 cases rise among Olympic athletes, personnel arrive in Beijing For the Indian women, this was their first match in the FIH Hockey Pro League, following the withdrawal of Australia and New Zealand from the competition because of Covid-related travel restrictions. Ahead of the tournament head coach Janneke Schopman had spoken of the great opportunity the FIH Hockey Pro League offered her team, with the chance of regular, high-quality competition. And on Monday, the Indians showed they were ready for bigger challenges ahead in the event. In another first for India as three goals were scored from penalty strokes, the most penalty strokes to be awarded and converted in a Hockey Pro League match. India certainly hit the ground running. Two goals in the opening quarter were ample proof that the team were up for this challenge. In the fifth minute, Navneet Kaur smashed a shot past Wu Surong to give her side the lead. Just seven minutes later, a great save by skipper and goalkeeper Savita from a China penalty corner was turned to India`s advantage and the counterattack allowed Neha to double the lead. For the first 30 minutes of play, the fast-moving sequence of passes and a willingness on the part of the players to take on defenders meant India, who narrowly missed a bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics, were looking the stronger team. In the second half, China began to raise their game to match the pace with which India had started the encounter. Unfortunately, China were unable to make the pressure count and India turned another counter-attack into a goal. This time it was Katariya Vandana who put the ball past Wu on the second attempt, after her first shot rebounded, a report on the FIH`s official website said. Some slick movements and speedy passing saw China finally rewarded. The ball was moved swiftly up the pitch and Deng Xue was able to steer the ball goalwards and past Etimarpu Rajani, who had replaced Savita in the India goal. Any hope China had that this goal might change the course of the game was dismissed when India won a penalty stroke in the 47th minute. Former captain Sushila Chanu made no mistake as she stepped up and put the ball into the corner of the China goal, the report said. Read Also | Beijing Olympics: China reports 34 new COVID-19 cases among Games-related personnel India`s next goal came from the stick of forward Sharmila Devi. A series of passes left the China defence stranded and Sharmila was able to turn the ball into the goal for India`s fifth goal. A second penalty stroke was won by the India attack as the Chinese defence were just unable to get out of the way of the nimble stick work of Lalremsiami. Gurjit Kaur stepped up to calmly and precisely send the ball home. With eight minutes left Sushila scored her second penalty stroke of the game making the final score 7-1. Sharmila Devi was adjudged as Player of the Match. On receiving her award, the striker said: "I am very happy with that performance. We played very well and we are very excited to be playing in the FIH Hockey Pro league for the first time."

India women thrash China 7-1 on debut in FIH Hockey Pro League

Manpreet Singh, who led India to a bronze at the Tokyo Olympic Games last year, will captain India in the upcoming FIH Pro League matches against South Africa and France, which will be played in Potchefstroom, South Africa, from February 8-12. Hockey India named a 20-member Indian men`s hockey squad for the South Africa tour with drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh as Manpreet`s deputy, Hockey India informed in a press release on Thursday. 
 
The men`s team will start a busy season, which includes the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, later this year leading up to the senior men`s World Cup in Odisha in January 2023, with the four Pro League matches. 
 
The team will see two new faces in promising young drag-flicker Jugraj Singh and speedy forward Abhishek. Jugraj, who is from Attari, Amritsar, came into the senior national camp for the very first time in January 2022 after he impressed the national selectors during the 1st Hockey India Senior Men Inter-Department National Championship where he turned up for Services Sports Control Board.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-time-olympic-medallist-charanjit-singh-passes-away-at-92-448083">Two-time Olympic medallist Charanjit Singh passes away at 92</a>

Abhishek, on the other hand, is a striker who was earlier part of the juniors program and had played for India Colts in the Sultan of Johor Cup in 2017 and 2018. From Sonepat, Haryana, Abhishek did well for Punjab National Bank in the 1st Hockey India Senior Men Inter-Department National Championship, which helped him earn a spot in the Senior National Camp for the first time. 
 
The 20-member squad includes goalkeepers PR Sreejesh, Krishan Bahadur Pathak, defenders Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Surender Kumar, Varun Kumar, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh. 
 
Midfield will see Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Hardik Singh, Jaskaran Singh, Shamsher Singh, and Vivek Sagar Prasad in action. The forward line includes Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Akashdeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Dilpreet Singh, and Abhishek. 
 
Speaking about the team, chief coach Graham Reid said, "With a very busy and important year ahead, the Indian team is excited to be back on the world stage and playing in the latest edition of the FIH Hockey Pro League. After a three-week camp in Bengaluru, a team has been selected that includes 14 Tokyo Olympians and 2 debutants." 
 
"We have tried to choose an experienced group that will not only give us a great opportunity to start this season of the FIH Hockey Pro League in a positive manner -- it reflects the high quality of opposition we will encounter in the opening games. We are also using this opportunity to debut 2 new players. Jugraj Singh, a versatile defender/midfielder who adds to our drag-flick options and Abhishek is a strong, fast striker, who loves scoring goals," Reid added. 
 
The Indian Team will leave for South Africa from Bengaluru on February 4. They will play France in the first match on February 8 and then take on South Africa the next day. They will play France on February 12 and hosts South Africa on the following day to complete their engagements on this tour. 
 
Indian squad: Goalkeepers: Sreejesh PR, Krishan Bahadur Pathak; Defenders: Harmanpreet Singh (vice-captain), Amit Rohidas, Surender Kumar, Varun Kumar, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh; Midfielders: Manpreet Singh (captain), Nilakanta Sharma, Hardik Singh, Jaskaran Singh, Shamsher Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad; Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Akashdeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Dilpreet Singh, Abhishek. 
 
Standbys: Suraj Karkera, Mandeep Mor, Raj Kumar Pal, Sumit, Gursahibjit Singh.

Manpreet Singh, who led India to a bronze at the Tokyo Olympic Games last year, will captain India in the upcoming FIH Pro League matches against South Africa and France, which will be played in Potchefstroom, South Africa, from February 8-12.

Manpreet Singh, who led India to a bronze at the Tokyo Olympic Games last year, will captain India in the upcoming FIH Pro League matches against South Africa and France, which will be played in Potchefstroom, South Africa, from February 8-12. Hockey India named a 20-member Indian men`s hockey squad for the South Africa tour with drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh as Manpreet`s deputy, Hockey India informed in a press release on Thursday. The men`s team will start a busy season, which includes the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, later this year leading up to the senior men`s World Cup in Odisha in January 2023, with the four Pro League matches. The team will see two new faces in promising young drag-flicker Jugraj Singh and speedy forward Abhishek. Jugraj, who is from Attari, Amritsar, came into the senior national camp for the very first time in January 2022 after he impressed the national selectors during the 1st Hockey India Senior Men Inter-Department National Championship where he turned up for Services Sports Control Board. ALSO READ | Two-time Olympic medallist Charanjit Singh passes away at 92 Abhishek, on the other hand, is a striker who was earlier part of the juniors program and had played for India Colts in the Sultan of Johor Cup in 2017 and 2018. From Sonepat, Haryana, Abhishek did well for Punjab National Bank in the 1st Hockey India Senior Men Inter-Department National Championship, which helped him earn a spot in the Senior National Camp for the first time. The 20-member squad includes goalkeepers PR Sreejesh, Krishan Bahadur Pathak, defenders Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Surender Kumar, Varun Kumar, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh. Midfield will see Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Hardik Singh, Jaskaran Singh, Shamsher Singh, and Vivek Sagar Prasad in action. The forward line includes Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Akashdeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Dilpreet Singh, and Abhishek. Speaking about the team, chief coach Graham Reid said, "With a very busy and important year ahead, the Indian team is excited to be back on the world stage and playing in the latest edition of the FIH Hockey Pro League. After a three-week camp in Bengaluru, a team has been selected that includes 14 Tokyo Olympians and 2 debutants." "We have tried to choose an experienced group that will not only give us a great opportunity to start this season of the FIH Hockey Pro League in a positive manner -- it reflects the high quality of opposition we will encounter in the opening games. We are also using this opportunity to debut 2 new players. Jugraj Singh, a versatile defender/midfielder who adds to our drag-flick options and Abhishek is a strong, fast striker, who loves scoring goals," Reid added. The Indian Team will leave for South Africa from Bengaluru on February 4. They will play France in the first match on February 8 and then take on South Africa the next day. They will play France on February 12 and hosts South Africa on the following day to complete their engagements on this tour. Indian squad: Goalkeepers: Sreejesh PR, Krishan Bahadur Pathak; Defenders: Harmanpreet Singh (vice-captain), Amit Rohidas, Surender Kumar, Varun Kumar, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh; Midfielders: Manpreet Singh (captain), Nilakanta Sharma, Hardik Singh, Jaskaran Singh, Shamsher Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad; Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Akashdeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Dilpreet Singh, Abhishek. Standbys: Suraj Karkera, Mandeep Mor, Raj Kumar Pal, Sumit, Gursahibjit Singh.

Manpreet Singh to lead 20-member team in Men's Pro League matches in South Africa

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.

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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

Sixteen members of the senior men's hockey team were among the 33 COVID-19 cases detected on Friday at the Sports Authority of India's National Centre of Excellence here.

The positive cases came after 128 tests were conducted at the high-profile centre, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) said. Majority of them are asymptomatic and all of them have been isolated, SAI said but did not divulge the identities of those infected.

"16 athletes and one coach from the Senior Men's Hockey team, training at the centre ahead of the upcoming FIH Pro League in South Africa, have tested positive. They are all asymptomatic," the SAI said.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/winter-olympics-some-people-may-not-make-it-athletes-risk-failing-beijing-covid-19-tests-says-ioc-expert-446286">Winter Olympics: 'Some people may not make it, athletes risk failing Beijing COVID-19 tests', says IOC expert</a>

Among the junior women's hockey girls training for the World Cup in April, 15 have tested positive. Out of the positive cases, three are asymptomatic while 12 are symptomatic.

One senior women's hockey team player, who is symptomatic, and a masseuse from the athletics team have also tested positive. 
SAI said it is taking all the necessary steps to treat the players in isolation and help them recover steadily.

Earlier, over 25 COVID cases were reported at the SAI's Patiala training centre with boxers being the worst hit. 
Patiala's National Institute of Sports is the training base of boxers, weightlifters and track and field athletes among others.

Sixteen members of the senior men's hockey team were among the 33 COVID-19 cases detected on Friday at the Sports Authority of India's National Centre of Excellence here.

Sixteen members of the senior men's hockey team were among the 33 COVID-19 cases detected on Friday at the Sports Authority of India's National Centre of Excellence here. The positive cases came after 128 tests were conducted at the high-profile centre, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) said. Majority of them are asymptomatic and all of them have been isolated, SAI said but did not divulge the identities of those infected. "16 athletes and one coach from the Senior Men's Hockey team, training at the centre ahead of the upcoming FIH Pro League in South Africa, have tested positive. They are all asymptomatic," the SAI said. Read Also | Winter Olympics: 'Some people may not make it, athletes risk failing Beijing COVID-19 tests', says IOC expert Among the junior women's hockey girls training for the World Cup in April, 15 have tested positive. Out of the positive cases, three are asymptomatic while 12 are symptomatic. One senior women's hockey team player, who is symptomatic, and a masseuse from the athletics team have also tested positive. SAI said it is taking all the necessary steps to treat the players in isolation and help them recover steadily. Earlier, over 25 COVID cases were reported at the SAI's Patiala training centre with boxers being the worst hit. Patiala's National Institute of Sports is the training base of boxers, weightlifters and track and field athletes among others.

Covid-19 outbreak at SAI Bengaluru, 16 senior men's hockey team players among 33 positive cases

Olympic bronze medallist India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 in a pulsating third-fourth place play-off match to win the bronze medal at the Asian Champions Trophy men's hockey tournament here on Wednesday.

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Congratulations to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MenInBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MenInBlue</a> for clinching the 3rd place in the Hero Men’s Asian Champions Trophy Dhaka 2021. 🏆 
 
Well played, team 🇮🇳.👏🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroACT2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroACT2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/j7UDwYoins">pic.twitter.com/j7UDwYoins</a>
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India, who were the defending champions along with Pakistan in the last edition of the tournament in Muscat, will return with a consolation prize after having lost to Japan 3-5 in the semifinals on Tuesday.

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India took the lead in the very first minute through vice-captain Harmanpreet Singh before Sumit (45th), Varun Kumar (53rd) and Akashdeep Singh (57th) struck a goal each.

Pakistan's goals were scored by Afraz (10th), Abdul Rana (33rd) and Ahmed Nadeem (57th).

It was India's second win over Pakistan in the tournament after having beaten the same opponents 3-1 in the round-robin stages.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-champions-trophy-harmanpreet-singh-strikes-twice-as-india-beat-arch-rivals-pakistan-3-1-437674">Asian Champions Trophy: Harmanpreet Singh strikes twice as India beat arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1</a>

Coming into the tournament as hot favourites and having topped the round-robin stage with an unbeaten record, the Indians would be disappointed to return with a bronze.

In the summit clash late on Wednesday, South Korea will play Japan.&nbsp;

Olympic bronze medallist India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 in a pulsating third-fourth place play-off match to win the bronze medal at the Asian Champions Trophy men's hockey tournament here on Wednesday.

Olympic bronze medallist India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 in a pulsating third-fourth place play-off match to win the bronze medal at the Asian Champions Trophy men's hockey tournament here on Wednesday. Congratulations to the #MenInBlue for clinching the 3rd place in the Hero Men’s Asian Champions Trophy Dhaka 2021. 🏆 Well played, team 🇮🇳.👏🤩#IndiaKaGame #HeroACT2021 pic.twitter.com/j7UDwYoins — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 22, 2021 × India, who were the defending champions along with Pakistan in the last edition of the tournament in Muscat, will return with a consolation prize after having lost to Japan 3-5 in the semifinals on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Japan stun India 5-3 to set up title clash against Korea in Asian Champions Trophy India took the lead in the very first minute through vice-captain Harmanpreet Singh before Sumit (45th), Varun Kumar (53rd) and Akashdeep Singh (57th) struck a goal each. Pakistan's goals were scored by Afraz (10th), Abdul Rana (33rd) and Ahmed Nadeem (57th). It was India's second win over Pakistan in the tournament after having beaten the same opponents 3-1 in the round-robin stages. ALSO READ: Asian Champions Trophy: Harmanpreet Singh strikes twice as India beat arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 Coming into the tournament as hot favourites and having topped the round-robin stage with an unbeaten record, the Indians would be disappointed to return with a bronze. In the summit clash late on Wednesday, South Korea will play Japan.

Asian Champions Trophy: India beat arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 in bronze medal face-off

Defending champions and Olympic bronze medallist India suffered a stunning 3-5 defeat against Japan in the second semifinal of the Asian Champions Trophy men's hockey tournament here on Tuesday.

India were the overwhelming favourites before the start of the match after having thrashed the same opponents 6-0 in their last round-robin match and also on head-to-head record, but the Japanese had other plans.

The Japanese looked a completely different side on Tuesday as they toyed with the defence of the Manpreet Singh-led side from the beginning.

Japan scored through Shota Yamada (1st minute, penalty), Raiki Fujishima (2nd minute), Yoshiki Kirishita (14th), Kosei Kawabe (35th) and Ryoma Ooka (41st).

India's goals were scored by Hardik Singh (17th, 58th minute) and vice-captain Harmanpreet Singh (43rd). India and Japan had met 18 times before with the hosts winning 16 games, while Japan emerged victorious on one occasion and one ended in a draw.

Japan will now take on South Korea in the summit clash, while India will be once again up against Pakistan in the bronze medal clash on Wednesday.

The tournament ended in a anti-climax for India as after having topped the round robin stages with an unbeaten record.

In the other semifinal of the day, South Korea beat Pakistan 6-5 in a thrilling contest.

Defending champions and Olympic bronze medallist India suffered a stunning 3-5 defeat against Japan in the second semifinal of the Asian Champions Trophy men's hockey tournament here on Tuesday.

Defending champions and Olympic bronze medallist India suffered a stunning 3-5 defeat against Japan in the second semifinal of the Asian Champions Trophy men's hockey tournament here on Tuesday. India were the overwhelming favourites before the start of the match after having thrashed the same opponents 6-0 in their last round-robin match and also on head-to-head record, but the Japanese had other plans. The Japanese looked a completely different side on Tuesday as they toyed with the defence of the Manpreet Singh-led side from the beginning. Japan scored through Shota Yamada (1st minute, penalty), Raiki Fujishima (2nd minute), Yoshiki Kirishita (14th), Kosei Kawabe (35th) and Ryoma Ooka (41st). India's goals were scored by Hardik Singh (17th, 58th minute) and vice-captain Harmanpreet Singh (43rd). India and Japan had met 18 times before with the hosts winning 16 games, while Japan emerged victorious on one occasion and one ended in a draw. Japan will now take on South Korea in the summit clash, while India will be once again up against Pakistan in the bronze medal clash on Wednesday. The tournament ended in a anti-climax for India as after having topped the round robin stages with an unbeaten record. In the other semifinal of the day, South Korea beat Pakistan 6-5 in a thrilling contest.

Japan stun India 5-3 to set up title clash against Korea in Asian Champions Trophy

Indian Men's Hockey Team on Wednesday registered a thumping 9-0 win over hosts Bangladesh in the Asian Champions Trophy here at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium. 
 
It was Dilpreet Singh who starred in India's win with a fine hat-trick that gave India a breakthrough in the first quarter. He scored goals in the 12th, 22nd and 44th minute to put pressure on the Bangladeshi defence while Jarmanpreet Singh (31', 43'), Lalit Upadhyay (29'), Akashdeep Singh (54'), Mandeep Mor (55') and Harmanpreet Singh (57') too scored in India`s first win at the prestigious Continental tournament.

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Simply Flawless! 🤩 
 
India net 9 goals and sweep past the hosts with ease. 
 
🇮🇳 9-0 🇧🇩 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroACT2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroACT2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/KC7N8bo6TF">pic.twitter.com/KC7N8bo6TF</a>
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The match started with a resilient Bangladeshi defence disrupting their high-octane attacks of Indian forwards. As many as eight PCs earned by India in the first quarter were brilliantly defended by the hosts, particularly their first rushers doing a fine job to keep India from taking an early lead.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-champions-trophy-manpreet-singh-led-india-hold-onto-2-2-draw-vs-south-korea-436895">Asian Champions Trophy: Manpreet Singh-led India hold onto 2-2 draw vs South Korea</a> 
 
Dilpreet Singh, managed to break the gridlock in the 12th minute, with a good assist by Skipper Manpreet Singh was put away by the young forward to give India 1-0 lead. Dilpreet doubled India`s lead in the 22nd minute and Lalit scored from a fine deflection via Harmanpreet`s drag flick to take India`s tally to 3-0 at half-time. 
 
During the ten-minute break, India`s Chief Coach Graham Reid insisted that the team will start the third quarter afresh with a clean slate and work on improvised variations to score. The players acted upon his advice as they showcased a much better attack and the variations in PC proved hard for the hosts to defend. 
 
India added two more goals in the third quarter through a well executed PC attack led by Harmanpreet Singh and Jarmanpreet, he was on target scoring back-to-back goals. The duo helped in taking India`s lead to a formidable 5-0 while Dilpreet scored his hat-trick in the 44th minute extending India`s lead to 6-0. 
 
The final quarter saw an array of goals scored by India which helped them seal the victory with nine goals. India dominated the match with 16 shots on goal and 25 circle entries.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-seven-the-heroes-of-indias-best-ever-olympic-campaign-in-tokyo-436350">Super Seven! The heroes of India's best-ever Olympic campaign in Tokyo</a> 
 
Speaking about their performance, skipper Manpreet Singh said, "It was a good effort from the team and we tried different variations in this match which we had been working on during our training. I feel at the start, we couldn`t convert as Bangladesh had put up a very strong PC defence. But at half-time, Coach Graham provided important inputs on how we could improvise our attack and as you all could see we improvised as the match progressed." 
 
"We will go back and further analyse today`s and yesterday`s game (against Korea) and find ways to come up with a much better performance against Pakistan," he added.

Indian Men's Hockey Team on Wednesday registered a thumping 9-0 win over hosts Bangladesh in the Asian Champions Trophy here at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium.

Indian Men's Hockey Team on Wednesday registered a thumping 9-0 win over hosts Bangladesh in the Asian Champions Trophy here at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium. It was Dilpreet Singh who starred in India's win with a fine hat-trick that gave India a breakthrough in the first quarter. He scored goals in the 12th, 22nd and 44th minute to put pressure on the Bangladeshi defence while Jarmanpreet Singh (31', 43'), Lalit Upadhyay (29'), Akashdeep Singh (54'), Mandeep Mor (55') and Harmanpreet Singh (57') too scored in India`s first win at the prestigious Continental tournament. Simply Flawless! 🤩 India net 9 goals and sweep past the hosts with ease. 🇮🇳 9-0 🇧🇩 #IndiaKaGame #HeroACT2021 pic.twitter.com/KC7N8bo6TF — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 15, 2021 × The match started with a resilient Bangladeshi defence disrupting their high-octane attacks of Indian forwards. As many as eight PCs earned by India in the first quarter were brilliantly defended by the hosts, particularly their first rushers doing a fine job to keep India from taking an early lead. ALSO READ: Asian Champions Trophy: Manpreet Singh-led India hold onto 2-2 draw vs South Korea Dilpreet Singh, managed to break the gridlock in the 12th minute, with a good assist by Skipper Manpreet Singh was put away by the young forward to give India 1-0 lead. Dilpreet doubled India`s lead in the 22nd minute and Lalit scored from a fine deflection via Harmanpreet`s drag flick to take India`s tally to 3-0 at half-time. During the ten-minute break, India`s Chief Coach Graham Reid insisted that the team will start the third quarter afresh with a clean slate and work on improvised variations to score. The players acted upon his advice as they showcased a much better attack and the variations in PC proved hard for the hosts to defend. India added two more goals in the third quarter through a well executed PC attack led by Harmanpreet Singh and Jarmanpreet, he was on target scoring back-to-back goals. The duo helped in taking India`s lead to a formidable 5-0 while Dilpreet scored his hat-trick in the 44th minute extending India`s lead to 6-0. The final quarter saw an array of goals scored by India which helped them seal the victory with nine goals. India dominated the match with 16 shots on goal and 25 circle entries. ALSO READ: Super Seven! The heroes of India's best-ever Olympic campaign in Tokyo Speaking about their performance, skipper Manpreet Singh said, "It was a good effort from the team and we tried different variations in this match which we had been working on during our training. I feel at the start, we couldn`t convert as Bangladesh had put up a very strong PC defence. But at half-time, Coach Graham provided important inputs on how we could improvise our attack and as you all could see we improvised as the match progressed." "We will go back and further analyse today`s and yesterday`s game (against Korea) and find ways to come up with a much better performance against Pakistan," he added.

Asian Champions Trophy: India net nine goals past Bangladesh in a dominating display

&nbsp;India was denied a winning start to their campaign at the Men`s Asian Champions Trophy with a spirited Korean team holding the defending champions to a thrilling 2-2 draw here at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium. For India, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay (3`) and Harmanpreet Singh (33`) scored while Jonghyun Jang (42`) and Kim Hyeongjin (46`) scored in Korea`s resurgence. Although it was India who dominated the proceedings in the first and second quarter with better ball possession (58 per cent) and a higher number of circle penetrations (14 for India and 8 for Korea), the Korean side rallied on a strong defensive structure in the third and fourth quarter to deny any opportunity for India to score.

After Lalit put India ahead early in the game with a fine field goal, converted brilliantly after controlling the ball upon receiving an aerial pass in the attacking circle, India created another fine opportunity in the second quarter through Akashdeep Singh`s tomahawk from the left top of the circle. But a highly vigilant Korean goalie Kim Jaehyeon made a fine save to keep India from extending the lead. He came up with another brilliant save when India won their first PC of the match only minutes before the end of the second quarter. It was Varun Kumar who took the shot which rebounded off Kim`s pads but newcomer Mandeep Mor`s attempt off the rebound too was well saved by the Korean goalie.

After the ten-minute half-time break, India extended their lead to 2-0 in the 33rd minute with a fiercely struck penalty corner converted by Harmanpreet Singh. It was India`s third take of the PC after the first two were blocked by Korea`s first rusher. Even though India created several chances in the following minutes, they could not find success even as Korea had successfully begun to make inroads into India`s circle. Their tactic to force India to make infringements in defence worked, as India conceded the first PC of the match in the 42nd minute. After the two retakes, Jonghyun Jang successfully put the ball past India`s goalie Krishan Pathak. This goal boosted the Korean attack, which had seemed rather listless in the first two quarters.They continued to challenge the Indian defence in the final quarter and even found success in the 46th minute when Kim Hyeongjin converted a fine field goal which could not be stopped by India`s young keeper Suraj Karkera. The final few minutes saw India create PCs but could not convert, thus settling for a 2-2 draw.

Incidentally, India had drawn against Korea 1-1 at the same venue in 2017 during their successful campaign at the Hero Asia Cup. Korea was the only team India had not beaten in that victorious outing. Post-match, Skipper Manpreet Singh expressed his disappointment but at the same time was confident the team would bounce back from this draw. "Korea were really good today with their defence and their goalkeeper was quite outstanding. We expected them to give us a hard time and hence it was important we started well. But we couldn`t keep up that momentum going into the third and fourth quarter. Nonetheless, this was the first match of the tournament and we surely will bounce back tomorrow against Bangladesh," stated the India Captain. On Wednesday, India will take on Bangladesh.

India was denied a winning start to their campaign at the Men`s Asian Champions Trophy with a spirited Korean team holding the defending champions to a thrilling 2-2 draw here at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium.

India was denied a winning start to their campaign at the Men`s Asian Champions Trophy with a spirited Korean team holding the defending champions to a thrilling 2-2 draw here at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium. For India, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay (3`) and Harmanpreet Singh (33`) scored while Jonghyun Jang (42`) and Kim Hyeongjin (46`) scored in Korea`s resurgence. Although it was India who dominated the proceedings in the first and second quarter with better ball possession (58 per cent) and a higher number of circle penetrations (14 for India and 8 for Korea), the Korean side rallied on a strong defensive structure in the third and fourth quarter to deny any opportunity for India to score. After Lalit put India ahead early in the game with a fine field goal, converted brilliantly after controlling the ball upon receiving an aerial pass in the attacking circle, India created another fine opportunity in the second quarter through Akashdeep Singh`s tomahawk from the left top of the circle. But a highly vigilant Korean goalie Kim Jaehyeon made a fine save to keep India from extending the lead. He came up with another brilliant save when India won their first PC of the match only minutes before the end of the second quarter. It was Varun Kumar who took the shot which rebounded off Kim`s pads but newcomer Mandeep Mor`s attempt off the rebound too was well saved by the Korean goalie. After the ten-minute half-time break, India extended their lead to 2-0 in the 33rd minute with a fiercely struck penalty corner converted by Harmanpreet Singh. It was India`s third take of the PC after the first two were blocked by Korea`s first rusher. Even though India created several chances in the following minutes, they could not find success even as Korea had successfully begun to make inroads into India`s circle. Their tactic to force India to make infringements in defence worked, as India conceded the first PC of the match in the 42nd minute. After the two retakes, Jonghyun Jang successfully put the ball past India`s goalie Krishan Pathak. This goal boosted the Korean attack, which had seemed rather listless in the first two quarters.They continued to challenge the Indian defence in the final quarter and even found success in the 46th minute when Kim Hyeongjin converted a fine field goal which could not be stopped by India`s young keeper Suraj Karkera. The final few minutes saw India create PCs but could not convert, thus settling for a 2-2 draw. Incidentally, India had drawn against Korea 1-1 at the same venue in 2017 during their successful campaign at the Hero Asia Cup. Korea was the only team India had not beaten in that victorious outing. Post-match, Skipper Manpreet Singh expressed his disappointment but at the same time was confident the team would bounce back from this draw. "Korea were really good today with their defence and their goalkeeper was quite outstanding. We expected them to give us a hard time and hence it was important we started well. But we couldn`t keep up that momentum going into the third and fourth quarter. Nonetheless, this was the first match of the tournament and we surely will bounce back tomorrow against Bangladesh," stated the India Captain. On Wednesday, India will take on Bangladesh.

Asian Champions Trophy: Manpreet Singh-led India hold onto 2-2 draw vs South Korea

Lautaro Domene struck a hat-trick as a determined Argentina stunned six-time champions Germany 4-2 to clinch their second FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup title at the Kalinga Stadium here on Sunday.

Domene converted three penalty corners in the 10th, 25th and 50th minute, while Franco Agoistini (60th) scored a field goal just seconds from the final hooter to hand Argentina their second title.

Julius Hayner (36th) and Mas Pfandt (47th) were the goal getters for Germany.

Argentina had earlier won the title way back in 2005 in Rotterdam where they defeated Australia 2-1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-mens-junior-wc-timothee-clements-hat-trick-takes-france-to-podium-india-finish-fourth-434348">FIH Men's Junior WC: Timothee Clement's hat-trick takes France to podium, India finish fourth</a>

The Argentines were by far the better side on display in the first quarter as they dominated the game by pressing hard on the German defence.

As has been their game, the Germans sat back and waited for counterattacks.

But Germany's ploy backfired as Argentina took the lead in the 10th minute through Domene from a penalty corner.

Argentina doubled their lead in the 25th minute when Domene once again found the back of the net from a penalty corner to go into half time leading 2-0.

But the Germans came out a completely different side after the change of ends and and managed to reduce the margin in the 36th minute through a field strike by Hayner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-junior-world-cup-germany-defeat-defending-champions-india-4-2-in-semi-final-will-play-argentina-in-final-433942">FIH Junior World Cup: Germany defeat defending champions India 4-2 in semi-final, will play Argentina in final</a>

Trailing by a goal and with just 15 minutes remaining, the Germans continued to attack and drew level in 47th minute when Pfandt scored from a set piece.

But it was not to be Germany's day as Domene struck again from a set piece in the 50th minute before Agostini scored from a field effort just at the stroke of the final hooter to shatter Germany's seventh title hopes.

Earlier in the day, defending champions India lost 1-3 to France to finish fourth in the competition.&nbsp;

Lautaro Domene struck a hat-trick as a determined Argentina stunned six-time champions Germany 4-2 to clinch their second FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup title at the Kalinga Stadium here on Sunday.

Lautaro Domene struck a hat-trick as a determined Argentina stunned six-time champions Germany 4-2 to clinch their second FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup title at the Kalinga Stadium here on Sunday. Domene converted three penalty corners in the 10th, 25th and 50th minute, while Franco Agoistini (60th) scored a field goal just seconds from the final hooter to hand Argentina their second title. Julius Hayner (36th) and Mas Pfandt (47th) were the goal getters for Germany. Argentina had earlier won the title way back in 2005 in Rotterdam where they defeated Australia 2-1. ALSO READ: FIH Men's Junior WC: Timothee Clement's hat-trick takes France to podium, India finish fourth The Argentines were by far the better side on display in the first quarter as they dominated the game by pressing hard on the German defence. As has been their game, the Germans sat back and waited for counterattacks. But Germany's ploy backfired as Argentina took the lead in the 10th minute through Domene from a penalty corner. Argentina doubled their lead in the 25th minute when Domene once again found the back of the net from a penalty corner to go into half time leading 2-0. But the Germans came out a completely different side after the change of ends and and managed to reduce the margin in the 36th minute through a field strike by Hayner. ALSO READ: FIH Junior World Cup: Germany defeat defending champions India 4-2 in semi-final, will play Argentina in final Trailing by a goal and with just 15 minutes remaining, the Germans continued to attack and drew level in 47th minute when Pfandt scored from a set piece. But it was not to be Germany's day as Domene struck again from a set piece in the 50th minute before Agostini scored from a field effort just at the stroke of the final hooter to shatter Germany's seventh title hopes. Earlier in the day, defending champions India lost 1-3 to France to finish fourth in the competition.

FIH Men's Junior WC: Lautero Domene's hat-trick hands Argentina second title after 16 years

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

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

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