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.

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"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.

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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

Chief Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that the Indian women’s hockey team has given an outstanding performance in the Tokyo Olympics. These young women won the hearts of the people of the country. We are fulfilling our duty by honoring them in Madhya Pradesh, the heart of the country. In the next Olympics, they will win the gold medal.

Chief Minister Shri Chouhan was addressing during the luncheon hosted by him in honor of the Indian women’s hockey team at his residence this afternoon. Chief Minister Shri Chouhan said that the members of the team displayed immense courage and skill in the Olympics. This has raised hopes of better performance of the Indian women’s hockey team in future competitions. Chief Minister Shri Chouhan presented a replica of Sanchi Stupa to every member of the team as a memento. He also presented a memento to Shri Tushar Khandekar, coach of the Indian team.

Sports Minister Smt. Yashodhara Raje Scindia, Indian Olympic Association, and F.I.H. President Dr. Narinder Dhruv Batra, Principal Secretary Sports, and Youth Welfare Department Shri Gulshan Bamra, Director Sports Shri Ravi Gupta, Director Public Relations Shri Ashutosh Pratap Singh were present on the occasion.

Followed by the luncheon the program organized in honor of the Olympic players today saw felicitation of INR 3.1 million ( 31 lakh)&nbsp;for each member of the Indian women's hockey team which was done by the Chief Minister in Minto Hall, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The Chief Minister welcomed the women's hockey team in the heart of India-Madhya Pradesh. He gave importance to the sport and said, "Bhopal is the 'nursery' of hockey and we will continue to take sports forward."

He also announced, "Madhya Pradesh government will make the contribution needed in the national game. Hockey is our life, and we will build a world-class hockey stadium in the land of Madhya Pradesh." &nbsp;While assuring the players, he said, "We will leave no stone unturned for the encouragement of any sport."

Rani Rampal, captain of the Indian women's hockey team, who came to the honor program of Olympic players, thanked the Chief Minister and said, "Your love and affection and encouragement towards women players is a message to the rest of the States that we should encourage women to play sports in the country."

At the same time, she praised the Chief Minister and described Madhya Pradesh as a hub of sports.

She said, "I thank the Sports Minister, and proud of the fact being a lady she has taken sports to a new level for female players, the amount of effort she puts in, is commendable. Her words that winning or losing does not matter, what matters is the efforts you put in to win are very motivating for us."

Indian women’s hockey team

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team comprises Sushri Rani Rampal (Captain), Savita (Vice-Captain), Deep Gras Ekka (Vice-Captain), Vandana Kataria, P. Sushila Chanu, Navjot Kaur, Namita Toppo, Monika, Nikki Pradhan, Gurjit Kaur, E. Rajni, Navneet Kaur, Neha, Lalremsiami, Reena Khokhar, Udita, Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, and Nisha. Among these players, Vandana Kataria and E. Rajni have been associate members of Madhya Pradesh State Women’s Academy. Both of them have also represented Madhya Pradesh in the national competition. Reena Khokhar, Monika, and P. Sushila Chanu have taken training from Madhya Pradesh State Women’s Hockey Academy.

Chief Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that the Indian women’s hockey team has given an outstanding performance in the Tokyo Olympics. These young women won the hearts of the people of the country.

Chief Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that the Indian women’s hockey team has given an outstanding performance in the Tokyo Olympics. These young women won the hearts of the people of the country. We are fulfilling our duty by honoring them in Madhya Pradesh, the heart of the country. In the next Olympics, they will win the gold medal. Chief Minister Shri Chouhan was addressing during the luncheon hosted by him in honor of the Indian women’s hockey team at his residence this afternoon. Chief Minister Shri Chouhan said that the members of the team displayed immense courage and skill in the Olympics. This has raised hopes of better performance of the Indian women’s hockey team in future competitions. Chief Minister Shri Chouhan presented a replica of Sanchi Stupa to every member of the team as a memento. He also presented a memento to Shri Tushar Khandekar, coach of the Indian team. Sports Minister Smt. Yashodhara Raje Scindia, Indian Olympic Association, and F.I.H. President Dr. Narinder Dhruv Batra, Principal Secretary Sports, and Youth Welfare Department Shri Gulshan Bamra, Director Sports Shri Ravi Gupta, Director Public Relations Shri Ashutosh Pratap Singh were present on the occasion. Followed by the luncheon the program organized in honor of the Olympic players today saw felicitation of INR 3.1 million ( 31 lakh) for each member of the Indian women's hockey team which was done by the Chief Minister in Minto Hall, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The Chief Minister welcomed the women's hockey team in the heart of India-Madhya Pradesh. He gave importance to the sport and said, "Bhopal is the 'nursery' of hockey and we will continue to take sports forward." He also announced, "Madhya Pradesh government will make the contribution needed in the national game. Hockey is our life, and we will build a world-class hockey stadium in the land of Madhya Pradesh." While assuring the players, he said, "We will leave no stone unturned for the encouragement of any sport." Rani Rampal, captain of the Indian women's hockey team, who came to the honor program of Olympic players, thanked the Chief Minister and said, "Your love and affection and encouragement towards women players is a message to the rest of the States that we should encourage women to play sports in the country." At the same time, she praised the Chief Minister and described Madhya Pradesh as a hub of sports. She said, "I thank the Sports Minister, and proud of the fact being a lady she has taken sports to a new level for female players, the amount of effort she puts in, is commendable. Her words that winning or losing does not matter, what matters is the efforts you put in to win are very motivating for us." Indian women’s hockey team The Indian Women’s Hockey Team comprises Sushri Rani Rampal (Captain), Savita (Vice-Captain), Deep Gras Ekka (Vice-Captain), Vandana Kataria, P. Sushila Chanu, Navjot Kaur, Namita Toppo, Monika, Nikki Pradhan, Gurjit Kaur, E. Rajni, Navneet Kaur, Neha, Lalremsiami, Reena Khokhar, Udita, Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, and Nisha. Among these players, Vandana Kataria and E. Rajni have been associate members of Madhya Pradesh State Women’s Academy. Both of them have also represented Madhya Pradesh in the national competition. Reena Khokhar, Monika, and P. Sushila Chanu have taken training from Madhya Pradesh State Women’s Hockey Academy.

MP government awards 3.1 million rupees each to Indian women's hockey team players

Indian women`s hockey team player Savita, who stood rock-solid guarding the goal during the Tokyo Olympic Games, said on Wednesday that with the current Olympic cycle spanning just three years, the team`s priority will be to regroup, analyse the Tokyo performance and "hit the ground running" immediately. 
 
With the 2024 Paralympic three years away Savita said, "I actually can`t wait to return to the camp in SAI (Sports Authority of India), Bengaluru. It has become a place of comfort for us. There has been lot of celebrations following the Olympics (India finished fourth) and now it`s time to get back to reality. Next year is crucial with the Asian Games and our priority will be to win gold so we automatically qualify for the Paris Olympics. We will resume training with that target in mind," she said. 
 
The team`s resilience to bounce back from a series of losses in the league stage to beat Ireland (1-0) and South Africa (4-3) changed the course of the Olympic Games for them. Making it to the quarterfinal was the team`s first priority and getting past the mighty Australians 1-0 in the first knockout game ensured the entire nation rallied behind them ahead of the semifinal clash against Argentina women. 
 
Looking back at the turn of events, Savita said, "Now that I have finally had some time to reflect on our performance, I do feel we achieved something outstanding, and the best part was the journey to get till here over the past five years. We have endured a lot as a team and as individuals faced tremendous odds to reach this level. I think we will always cherish this journey. 
 
"Though we lost very closely to Argentina in the semifinals, we wanted to give our everything against Great Britain (in the bronze-medal match) and we really wanted that medal around our necks and after beating Australia, we really believed this was achievable," added Savita, who has been nominated for the FIH Women`s Goalkeeper of the Year award. She has been nominated alongside Argentina`s Belen Succi and Great Britain`s Maddie Hinch. 
 
India had finished 12th at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and few had expected them to be medal contenders in Tokyo. 
 
"But now I feel the expectations will grow (after India finished fourth in Tokyo). People have seen that we can perform at top tournaments, and I believe we can live up to these expectations. We now have the experience, and the team is poised to achieve bigger feats. The experience in Rio made us believe in ourselves and we really worked hard to get to this level, now we will work on taking it to the next level," added Savita.

Indian women`s hockey team player Savita, who stood rock-solid guarding the goal during the Tokyo Olympic Games, said on Wednesday that with the current Olympic cycle spanning just three years, the team`s priority will be to regroup, analyse the Tokyo performance and "hit the ground running" immediately.

Indian women`s hockey team player Savita, who stood rock-solid guarding the goal during the Tokyo Olympic Games, said on Wednesday that with the current Olympic cycle spanning just three years, the team`s priority will be to regroup, analyse the Tokyo performance and "hit the ground running" immediately. With the 2024 Paralympic three years away Savita said, "I actually can`t wait to return to the camp in SAI (Sports Authority of India), Bengaluru. It has become a place of comfort for us. There has been lot of celebrations following the Olympics (India finished fourth) and now it`s time to get back to reality. Next year is crucial with the Asian Games and our priority will be to win gold so we automatically qualify for the Paris Olympics. We will resume training with that target in mind," she said. The team`s resilience to bounce back from a series of losses in the league stage to beat Ireland (1-0) and South Africa (4-3) changed the course of the Olympic Games for them. Making it to the quarterfinal was the team`s first priority and getting past the mighty Australians 1-0 in the first knockout game ensured the entire nation rallied behind them ahead of the semifinal clash against Argentina women. Looking back at the turn of events, Savita said, "Now that I have finally had some time to reflect on our performance, I do feel we achieved something outstanding, and the best part was the journey to get till here over the past five years. We have endured a lot as a team and as individuals faced tremendous odds to reach this level. I think we will always cherish this journey. "Though we lost very closely to Argentina in the semifinals, we wanted to give our everything against Great Britain (in the bronze-medal match) and we really wanted that medal around our necks and after beating Australia, we really believed this was achievable," added Savita, who has been nominated for the FIH Women`s Goalkeeper of the Year award. She has been nominated alongside Argentina`s Belen Succi and Great Britain`s Maddie Hinch. India had finished 12th at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and few had expected them to be medal contenders in Tokyo. "But now I feel the expectations will grow (after India finished fourth in Tokyo). People have seen that we can perform at top tournaments, and I believe we can live up to these expectations. We now have the experience, and the team is poised to achieve bigger feats. The experience in Rio made us believe in ourselves and we really worked hard to get to this level, now we will work on taking it to the next level," added Savita.

Will have to start thinking about 2024 Paris now: Goalkeeper Savita

India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports

While all of India celebrates PR Sreejesh, the Hockey Goalkeeper who has earned the moniker of being the ‘country’s wall’, his father has a vivid memory of how the Olympian bronze-medallist forayed into hockey. 
 
His father recalls how the modest agriculture-reliant family had to make some sacrifices to meet the expenses of a Hockey Goalkeeper’s kit that young Sreejesh required.&nbsp;

It all happened in the 1990s, when Sreejesh excelled in district-level sporting events including sprinting and volleyball, until he was in class 7. 
 
Thereafter, his inclination and impressive performance in sports helped him switch over to the G V Raja Sports School in Thiruvananthapuram. 
 
<img alt="PR Sreejesh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f77c0dbc-b354-4132-8151-0490f6b7d0ed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202021-08-06%20at%209.31.40%20PM%20%281%29.jpeg" /> 
 
Given the specialized focus on sports at his new school, the teenager tried his hand at various sports. Of the handful of sports that he tried, he seemed to fit best as a hockey goalkeeper.&nbsp;

However, this was a sport and a position that required considerable deal of equipment and kit. Every ready to encourage the young man, Sreejesh’s father Raveendran gladly sold their cow to eke out funds for the hockey kit. 
 
“We are a very modest family and we couldn’t really afford to spend Rs.10,000 on a kit. Hence I sold one of our five cows and managed to get Rs.7,000 and also made arrangements for the remaining sum” Raveendran proudly reminisces to WION.&nbsp;

“We did the best for children within our limited means. I remember having accompanied him to Delhi for the Junior National camp around 2002-03” the elated father adds. Acknowledging the celebrations, love and wishes pouring in from all around, Raveendran says that it is God ’s grace that’s taking their family ahead in life.&nbsp;

It is notable that Sreejesh had dedicated his medal win to his father, via a tweet, and now we know why.&nbsp;

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This medal is for you my achaaan ( father ) 
 
My hero, he is why I’m here <a href="https://t.co/1OdO5eZwaw">pic.twitter.com/1OdO5eZwaw</a>
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1423335130274271236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Sreejesh’s childhood, his father says that the boy had secured good scores in school, despite having focussed intensely on sports. Another stark contrast in Sreejesh’s personality as opposed to that of many of his teammates is that the man from Kerala is a voracious reader. In the words of his father, “During the COVID-19 lockdown, he had nothing much to do and his love for reading grow even more intense. His friends and roommates play PUBG, but he has no interest in whatever that is! He just loves his books, a lot of them.”

For Sreejesh’s schoolmate and wife Aneeshya, who herself was a former athlete they are a very tightly knit family. While she and the kids don’t get much time to spend with Sreejesh, they make the most of the few weeks that they get. Their little kids now realize that their father has won and won big! “Daughter knows a fair deal about the Olympics as she’s in the 2nd standard, our son is too young, but he’s equally excited about dad playing on screen” Aneeshya told Zee media.&nbsp;

With sports having been the sole focus at their residence over the last few weeks, their daughter has become specially attracted towards women’s hockey, thanks to the stellar performance by the Indian side. “Usually she tells people that she aspires to be a teacher, but now she’s smitten by Rani Rampal and wants to be a hockey captain” Aneeshya says happily.&nbsp;

While all of India celebrates PR Sreejesh, the Hockey Goalkeeper who has earned the moniker of being the ‘country’s wall’, his father has a vivid memory of how the Olympian bronze-medallist forayed into hockey.

While all of India celebrates PR Sreejesh, the Hockey Goalkeeper who has earned the moniker of being the ‘country’s wall’, his father has a vivid memory of how the Olympian bronze-medallist forayed into hockey. His father recalls how the modest agriculture-reliant family had to make some sacrifices to meet the expenses of a Hockey Goalkeeper’s kit that young Sreejesh required. It all happened in the 1990s, when Sreejesh excelled in district-level sporting events including sprinting and volleyball, until he was in class 7. Thereafter, his inclination and impressive performance in sports helped him switch over to the G V Raja Sports School in Thiruvananthapuram. Given the specialized focus on sports at his new school, the teenager tried his hand at various sports. Of the handful of sports that he tried, he seemed to fit best as a hockey goalkeeper. However, this was a sport and a position that required considerable deal of equipment and kit. Every ready to encourage the young man, Sreejesh’s father Raveendran gladly sold their cow to eke out funds for the hockey kit. “We are a very modest family and we couldn’t really afford to spend Rs.10,000 on a kit. Hence I sold one of our five cows and managed to get Rs.7,000 and also made arrangements for the remaining sum” Raveendran proudly reminisces to WION. “We did the best for children within our limited means. I remember having accompanied him to Delhi for the Junior National camp around 2002-03” the elated father adds. Acknowledging the celebrations, love and wishes pouring in from all around, Raveendran says that it is God ’s grace that’s taking their family ahead in life. It is notable that Sreejesh had dedicated his medal win to his father, via a tweet, and now we know why. This medal is for you my achaaan ( father ) My hero, he is why I’m here pic.twitter.com/1OdO5eZwaw — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) August 5, 2021 × On Sreejesh’s childhood, his father says that the boy had secured good scores in school, despite having focussed intensely on sports. Another stark contrast in Sreejesh’s personality as opposed to that of many of his teammates is that the man from Kerala is a voracious reader. In the words of his father, “During the COVID-19 lockdown, he had nothing much to do and his love for reading grow even more intense. His friends and roommates play PUBG, but he has no interest in whatever that is! He just loves his books, a lot of them.” For Sreejesh’s schoolmate and wife Aneeshya, who herself was a former athlete they are a very tightly knit family. While she and the kids don’t get much time to spend with Sreejesh, they make the most of the few weeks that they get. Their little kids now realize that their father has won and won big! “Daughter knows a fair deal about the Olympics as she’s in the 2nd standard, our son is too young, but he’s equally excited about dad playing on screen” Aneeshya told Zee media. With sports having been the sole focus at their residence over the last few weeks, their daughter has become specially attracted towards women’s hockey, thanks to the stellar performance by the Indian side. “Usually she tells people that she aspires to be a teacher, but now she’s smitten by Rani Rampal and wants to be a hockey captain” Aneeshya says happily.

Hockey Goalkeeper Sreejesh’s Father sold a family cow to afford a Hockey Kit; son returns with Olympic bronze 

A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently in the US.

About one lakh employment-based Green Cards are at the risk of being wasted in less than two months, causing resentment among Indian IT professionals whose wait for legal permanent residency now runs into decades.

A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently in the US.

This year's quota for employment-based immigrants is 261,500, far higher than the usual 140,000, Indian professional Sandeep Pawar told PTI. "Unfortunately, under the law, if these visas aren't issued by September 30, they are lost forever," he said.

The current pace of processing by US Citizenship and Immigration Services or USCIS suggests they will waste more than 100,000 green cards, a fact recently confirmed by the Department of State officer in charge of determining visa usage, he said.

If the USCIS or the Biden administration doesn't take any steps, the extra 100,000 Green Cards that are available this year will be wasted, Pawar rued.

The White House did not comment on the questions asked in this regard.

Meanwhile, a group of 125 Indian and Chinese nationals living in the US filed a lawsuit to prevent the administration from wasting the Green Cards.

"There are hundreds of thousands of gainfully employed legal immigrants in the US who would benefit from these Green Cards. Many of them have been waiting for a decade or more to adjust to permanent resident status but have been unable to do so due to a lack of available visa numbers, " he said.

"But this year, if the USCIS does its job efficiently and promptly, these immigrants will finally have the opportunity to become permanent residents, something which would otherwise take decades, " said Pawar, who has been fighting for the rights of Indian professionals waiting for several decades for Green Cards.

"Most potential beneficiaries, such as myself, are from India, a country that is the most backlogged due to inherently racist and discriminatory per country quotas embedded in the INA. Many have spouses, mostly women, who are unable to work until they become permanent residents, " Pawar said.

"Many have kids who will age out and be forced to self-deport even though this is the only country they know. The harm is both immense and irreparable if these Green Cards are not used," he said.

IMPACT executive director Neil Makhija, who met President Joe Biden as part of a delegation, said he urged him to reform the immigration laws by abolishing Green Card caps and quotas and include 200,000 children of long-term visa holders in efforts to protect all dreamers.

In an op-ed in The Washington Post, David J Bier, a research fellow at the Cato Institute, alleged that the Biden administration is responsible for this waste of Green Cards. Last week, the US government announced that it has processed Green Card applications at such a slow pace that it will come at least 100,000 slots short of using up the annual limit.&nbsp;

"Without drastic revisions in the glacial processing times, President Biden will have presided over one of the largest cuts to legal immigration in US history — and almost no one is talking about it," he said.

A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently in the US.

A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently in the US. About one lakh employment-based Green Cards are at the risk of being wasted in less than two months, causing resentment among Indian IT professionals whose wait for legal permanent residency now runs into decades. A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently in the US. This year's quota for employment-based immigrants is 261,500, far higher than the usual 140,000, Indian professional Sandeep Pawar told PTI. "Unfortunately, under the law, if these visas aren't issued by September 30, they are lost forever," he said. The current pace of processing by US Citizenship and Immigration Services or USCIS suggests they will waste more than 100,000 green cards, a fact recently confirmed by the Department of State officer in charge of determining visa usage, he said. If the USCIS or the Biden administration doesn't take any steps, the extra 100,000 Green Cards that are available this year will be wasted, Pawar rued. The White House did not comment on the questions asked in this regard. Meanwhile, a group of 125 Indian and Chinese nationals living in the US filed a lawsuit to prevent the administration from wasting the Green Cards. "There are hundreds of thousands of gainfully employed legal immigrants in the US who would benefit from these Green Cards. Many of them have been waiting for a decade or more to adjust to permanent resident status but have been unable to do so due to a lack of available visa numbers, " he said. "But this year, if the USCIS does its job efficiently and promptly, these immigrants will finally have the opportunity to become permanent residents, something which would otherwise take decades, " said Pawar, who has been fighting for the rights of Indian professionals waiting for several decades for Green Cards. "Most potential beneficiaries, such as myself, are from India, a country that is the most backlogged due to inherently racist and discriminatory per country quotas embedded in the INA. Many have spouses, mostly women, who are unable to work until they become permanent residents, " Pawar said. "Many have kids who will age out and be forced to self-deport even though this is the only country they know. The harm is both immense and irreparable if these Green Cards are not used," he said. IMPACT executive director Neil Makhija, who met President Joe Biden as part of a delegation, said he urged him to reform the immigration laws by abolishing Green Card caps and quotas and include 200,000 children of long-term visa holders in efforts to protect all dreamers. In an op-ed in The Washington Post, David J Bier, a research fellow at the Cato Institute, alleged that the Biden administration is responsible for this waste of Green Cards. Last week, the US government announced that it has processed Green Card applications at such a slow pace that it will come at least 100,000 slots short of using up the annual limit. "Without drastic revisions in the glacial processing times, President Biden will have presided over one of the largest cuts to legal immigration in US history — and almost no one is talking about it," he said.

100,000 green cards at risk of going to waste this year; resentment among Indian professionals

The Netherlands won their fourth Olympic women`s hockey title by beating Argentina 3-1 in the final at the Tokyo Games on Friday. 
 
The Netherlands effectively settled the match in the second quarter, scoring three times off penalty corners, with one goal from Margot van Geffen and two from Caia van Maasakker. 
 
Argentina replied with moments left to play in the first half when Agustina Gorzelany also scored off a penalty corner. 
 
Las Leonas kept fighting after the halftime break but were unable to score again, settling for the silver medal. 
 
"It`s amazing," Netherlands captain Eva de Goede said. "I just can`t believe that we actually did it. We worked so hard for it." 
 
The win gave De Goede and teammate Lidewij Welten their third Olympic gold in women`s hockey, after they also earned the top prize at the 2008 and 2012 Games. 
 
The only other women`s hockey player to win Olympic gold three times is Australia`s Rechelle Hawkes - in 1988, 1996 and 2000. 
 
"It`s the cherry on the pie. It`s really incredible," Welten said. "We`ve both had an incredible career and still going so that`s amazing." 
 
The two sides also played each other in the final at the 2012 London Olympics, when the Netherlands took home the gold. 
 
BRITAIN`S BRONZE 
 
Britain earned the bronze medal with a hard-fought 4-3 win over India in hot conditions earlier on Friday. 
 
Britain, who had won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics, took a two-goal lead in the second quarter through Elena Rayer and Sarah Robertson. 
 
India, who have never won an Olympic medal in women`s hockey, pulled level after drag-flick specialist Gurjit Kaur scored twice off penalty corners. 
 
Britain then conceded another goal that gave India a 3-2 lead going into the break, but they kept fighting to turn the tables in the final leg of their Tokyo campaign. 
 
Hollie Pearne-Webb equalised in the 35th minute before Grace Balsdon scored Britain`s winning goal from a penalty corner in the last quarter. 
 
"Really pleased that we could come here and get it across the line," Pearne-Webb told reporters. 
 
India`s loss meant the women`s team could not match the feat of the men`s team, who won the country`s first Olympic hockey medal in 41 years, prevailing in a nine-goal thriller against Germany in the bronze medal match.

The Netherlands won their fourth Olympic women`s hockey title by beating Argentina 3-1 in the final at the Tokyo Games on Friday. The Netherlands effectively settled the match in the second quarter, scoring three times off penalty corners, with one goal from Margot van Geffen and two from Caia van Maasakker.

The Netherlands won their fourth Olympic women`s hockey title by beating Argentina 3-1 in the final at the Tokyo Games on Friday. The Netherlands effectively settled the match in the second quarter, scoring three times off penalty corners, with one goal from Margot van Geffen and two from Caia van Maasakker. Argentina replied with moments left to play in the first half when Agustina Gorzelany also scored off a penalty corner. Las Leonas kept fighting after the halftime break but were unable to score again, settling for the silver medal. "It`s amazing," Netherlands captain Eva de Goede said. "I just can`t believe that we actually did it. We worked so hard for it." The win gave De Goede and teammate Lidewij Welten their third Olympic gold in women`s hockey, after they also earned the top prize at the 2008 and 2012 Games. The only other women`s hockey player to win Olympic gold three times is Australia`s Rechelle Hawkes - in 1988, 1996 and 2000. "It`s the cherry on the pie. It`s really incredible," Welten said. "We`ve both had an incredible career and still going so that`s amazing." The two sides also played each other in the final at the 2012 London Olympics, when the Netherlands took home the gold. BRITAIN`S BRONZE Britain earned the bronze medal with a hard-fought 4-3 win over India in hot conditions earlier on Friday. Britain, who had won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics, took a two-goal lead in the second quarter through Elena Rayer and Sarah Robertson. India, who have never won an Olympic medal in women`s hockey, pulled level after drag-flick specialist Gurjit Kaur scored twice off penalty corners. Britain then conceded another goal that gave India a 3-2 lead going into the break, but they kept fighting to turn the tables in the final leg of their Tokyo campaign. Hollie Pearne-Webb equalised in the 35th minute before Grace Balsdon scored Britain`s winning goal from a penalty corner in the last quarter. "Really pleased that we could come here and get it across the line," Pearne-Webb told reporters. India`s loss meant the women`s team could not match the feat of the men`s team, who won the country`s first Olympic hockey medal in 41 years, prevailing in a nine-goal thriller against Germany in the bronze medal match.

Tokyo Olympics, Hockey: Netherlands claim gold with 3-1 victory over Argentina

Belgium won their first Olympic men's&nbsp;hockey&nbsp;title, beating Australia 3-2 in a penalty shootout after the final finished in a 1-1 draw on Thursday.

The sides were locked in a close fight through much of the match, with Belgium forward Florent van Aubel giving the Red Lions the lead two minutes into the second half.

Australia equalised thanks to a goal by Tom Wickham, sending the match to the shootout, in which Belgian goalie Vincent Vanasch played a key role as the Kookaburras failed on three attempts.

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"We were really focused and then I did the job at the end," Vanasch told reporters.

"I’m really happy. I think all of the Belgian people are proud today of the Belgium national team."

Australia, who won the silver medal, claimed their last Olympic title in 2004.

India took the bronze earlier on Thursday after a thrilling 5-4 victory over Germany, giving the country its first Olympic medal in the sport since the 1980 Moscow Games.

India forward Simranjeet Singh scored twice, including the winner.

"It's a dream come true," Simranjeet said. "We've made 1.3 billion Indians proud by finishing on the podium."

The goal-rich match was not easy for the eight-time Olympic champions. Germany took an early lead through a second-minute goal by Timur Oruz, and posed a threat to India in the first quarter.

After Simranjeet equalised with a backhand shot, Germany kept their cool, scoring twice to take a 3-1 lead in the second quarter.

But India pulled level late in that quarter thanks to goals by Hardik Singh and Harmanpreet Singh, making it 3-3 at halftime.

India took a 5-3 lead after Rupinder Pal Singh notched in a penalty stroke and Simranjeet scored the winner not long into the second half.

Germany got one goal back and tried to force the equaliser, even taking out their goalkeeper to bring in an extra outfield player but they could not beat India goalie Sreejesh Parattu Raveendran who made nine saves in the match.

Belgium won their first Olympic men's hockey title, beating Australia 3-2 in a penalty shootout after the final finished in a 1-1 draw on Thursday. The sides were locked in a close fight through much of the match, with Belgium forward Florent van Aubel giving the Red Lions the lead two minutes into the second half.

Belgium won their first Olympic men's hockey title, beating Australia 3-2 in a penalty shootout after the final finished in a 1-1 draw on Thursday. The sides were locked in a close fight through much of the match, with Belgium forward Florent van Aubel giving the Red Lions the lead two minutes into the second half. Australia equalised thanks to a goal by Tom Wickham, sending the match to the shootout, in which Belgian goalie Vincent Vanasch played a key role as the Kookaburras failed on three attempts. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Golf - Nelly Korda fires up with hot 62 to take four-shot lead "We were really focused and then I did the job at the end," Vanasch told reporters. "I’m really happy. I think all of the Belgian people are proud today of the Belgium national team." Australia, who won the silver medal, claimed their last Olympic title in 2004. India took the bronze earlier on Thursday after a thrilling 5-4 victory over Germany, giving the country its first Olympic medal in the sport since the 1980 Moscow Games. India forward Simranjeet Singh scored twice, including the winner. "It's a dream come true," Simranjeet said. "We've made 1.3 billion Indians proud by finishing on the podium." The goal-rich match was not easy for the eight-time Olympic champions. Germany took an early lead through a second-minute goal by Timur Oruz, and posed a threat to India in the first quarter. After Simranjeet equalised with a backhand shot, Germany kept their cool, scoring twice to take a 3-1 lead in the second quarter. But India pulled level late in that quarter thanks to goals by Hardik Singh and Harmanpreet Singh, making it 3-3 at halftime. India took a 5-3 lead after Rupinder Pal Singh notched in a penalty stroke and Simranjeet scored the winner not long into the second half. Germany got one goal back and tried to force the equaliser, even taking out their goalkeeper to bring in an extra outfield player but they could not beat India goalie Sreejesh Parattu Raveendran who made nine saves in the match.

Tokyo Olympics: Hockey - Belgium claim first gold after shootout win over Australia

Indian men's hockey team defeated Germany to win the bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics. This is India's first Olympic medal in hockey since they won the gold medal in the 1980 Olympics held in Moscow.

Tokyo Games: Indian men's hockey team defeats Germany to win bronze medal

The Netherlands will play in the women`s Olympic hockey finals for a fifth straight time at the Tokyo Games after booking an inspiring 5-1 triumph over 2016 Rio Olympic champions Britain on Wednesday. 
 
The Netherlands took the lead in the first half when Laurien Leurink outsmarted her opponent and her pass reached 21-year-old forward Felice Albers who scored by shooting the ball through the legs of British goalie Madeleine Hinch. 
 
The Netherlands, who won silver at the 2016 Rio Games after taking home the top prize twice in a row at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, doubled the score less than a minute later through a powerful shot by Marloes Keetels. 
 
The goals dealt a hard blow to the British side, who had not given away much against the Dutch gold medal favourites in the first 15 minutes of the match. 
 
Britain had beaten the Dutch side through a penalty shootout in the final of the 2016 Rio Games that got them the gold medal. In Tokyo, the gap between the two sides was too large for Britain to overcome. 
 
The Netherlands had already scored 21 goals before starting the semi-finals while conceding only two goals in their previous matches in the tournament. 
 
After the halftime break, the Netherlands extended its lead to 4-0 thanks to goals by Maria Verschoor and Albers. 
 
Britain came back a goal when Giselle Ansley flicked in a penalty corner, before Frederique Matla did the same for the Netherlands, settling the final score. 
 
The Netherlands will next play Argentina or India in the finals on Friday, while Britain will play for bronze.

The Netherlands will play in the women`s Olympic hockey finals for a fifth straight time at the Tokyo Games after booking an inspiring 5-1 triumph over 2016 Rio Olympic champions Britain on Wednesday.

The Netherlands will play in the women`s Olympic hockey finals for a fifth straight time at the Tokyo Games after booking an inspiring 5-1 triumph over 2016 Rio Olympic champions Britain on Wednesday. The Netherlands took the lead in the first half when Laurien Leurink outsmarted her opponent and her pass reached 21-year-old forward Felice Albers who scored by shooting the ball through the legs of British goalie Madeleine Hinch. The Netherlands, who won silver at the 2016 Rio Games after taking home the top prize twice in a row at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, doubled the score less than a minute later through a powerful shot by Marloes Keetels. The goals dealt a hard blow to the British side, who had not given away much against the Dutch gold medal favourites in the first 15 minutes of the match. Britain had beaten the Dutch side through a penalty shootout in the final of the 2016 Rio Games that got them the gold medal. In Tokyo, the gap between the two sides was too large for Britain to overcome. The Netherlands had already scored 21 goals before starting the semi-finals while conceding only two goals in their previous matches in the tournament. After the halftime break, the Netherlands extended its lead to 4-0 thanks to goals by Maria Verschoor and Albers. Britain came back a goal when Giselle Ansley flicked in a penalty corner, before Frederique Matla did the same for the Netherlands, settling the final score. The Netherlands will next play Argentina or India in the finals on Friday, while Britain will play for bronze.

Tokyo Olympics: Netherlands reaches women's Hockey finals with 5-1 win over Britain

The Indian side came into this match on the rear of three sequential successes, having lost their initial three fixtures.&nbsp;Argentina have been runners-up twice and won the bronze twice as well.&nbsp;

They qualified for the knockouts on the last day, after Great Britain beat Ireland in the last group match. By then, many had believed that India had gotten their hands on the qualifier&nbsp;game as they were set to confront the strong Australian side. However, the Indian Women's group had different thoughts!&nbsp;

Subsequent to beating the World No. 3 Australia, today India confronted a much harder test, as they took in the World No.2 group, Argentina.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-particularly-special-melinda-and-bill-gates-cheer-for-their-future-son-in-law-in-equestrian-final-402814" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: 'Particularly special': Melinda and Bill Gates cheer for their 'future' son-in-law in Equestrian final</a>

<h2>1ST QUARTER</h2>

India attacked immediately as they ran down the right flank to entered the attacking half immediately. The two sides rushed to execute their attacks, yet it was India who drove by a heavenly run from Rani Rampal scored a penalty corner. India won a penalty corner.&nbsp;

Gurjit strikes and scored an early goal for India were of a dream so start to this semi-final clash as they lead 1-0. Gurjit Kaur carried her celestial form into the semi-finals.&nbsp;

It was an incredible infusion and regent snare that set up the went for Gurjit, who has made her mark in these last two games. A straight incredible hit with the keeper in with no way.&nbsp;

<h2>2ND QUARTER</h2>

Argentina won a penalty corner. Captain Barrionuevo Maria Noel scored as she discovered the gap in the Indian defense. An incredible shot down to the attendant's left plank past Savita into the goal.&nbsp;

Argentina with their very own penalty corner levelled things up and were looking truly dangerous in the 2nd quarter. They will be disillusioned to not take the lead here, yet the Indian defense has been capable as well. The two teams have created chances, more from Argentina, yet the finishing has been somewhat poor.

<h2>3RD QUARTER</h2>

India couldn't track down the final passes, and have been moved on the backfoot by Argentina! Argentina enjoyed the ball possession and were coming in with a large number of attacks. India were solid with their tackles and made various turnovers in the midfield, however, they have battled to keep the ball with them.&nbsp;

Argentina scored. 2-1. The shot is deflected into the rear of the net and Savita caught on her knees as the ball went by her left shoulder.

<h2>4TH QUARTER</h2>

The trapping was an issue in this game, but India was keeping the ball possession better in the midfield in the last quarter.

India won the much-needed penalty corner, but couldn't convert&nbsp;

India penetrated a lot, and effectively as well, however inside the circle, Argentina have been exceptionally obstinate and have fought away everything.

Argentina does merit the win and they do have the right to walk into the finals. India then again ought to be amazingly glad for their endeavors, of what they have accomplished, and of what they were able to do.&nbsp;

India will now face Great Britain in the bronze medal match on August 6th at 7 am IST.&nbsp;

The Indian side came into this match on the rear of three sequential successes, having lost their initial three fixtures. Argentina have been runners-up twice and won the bronze twice as well.

The Indian side came into this match on the rear of three sequential successes, having lost their initial three fixtures. Argentina have been runners-up twice and won the bronze twice as well. They qualified for the knockouts on the last day, after Great Britain beat Ireland in the last group match. By then, many had believed that India had gotten their hands on the qualifier game as they were set to confront the strong Australian side. However, the Indian Women's group had different thoughts! Subsequent to beating the World No. 3 Australia, today India confronted a much harder test, as they took in the World No.2 group, Argentina. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: 'Particularly special': Melinda and Bill Gates cheer for their 'future' son-in-law in Equestrian final 1ST QUARTER India attacked immediately as they ran down the right flank to entered the attacking half immediately. The two sides rushed to execute their attacks, yet it was India who drove by a heavenly run from Rani Rampal scored a penalty corner. India won a penalty corner. Gurjit strikes and scored an early goal for India were of a dream so start to this semi-final clash as they lead 1-0. Gurjit Kaur carried her celestial form into the semi-finals. It was an incredible infusion and regent snare that set up the went for Gurjit, who has made her mark in these last two games. A straight incredible hit with the keeper in with no way. 2ND QUARTER Argentina won a penalty corner. Captain Barrionuevo Maria Noel scored as she discovered the gap in the Indian defense. An incredible shot down to the attendant's left plank past Savita into the goal. Argentina with their very own penalty corner levelled things up and were looking truly dangerous in the 2nd quarter. They will be disillusioned to not take the lead here, yet the Indian defense has been capable as well. The two teams have created chances, more from Argentina, yet the finishing has been somewhat poor. 3RD QUARTER India couldn't track down the final passes, and have been moved on the backfoot by Argentina! Argentina enjoyed the ball possession and were coming in with a large number of attacks. India were solid with their tackles and made various turnovers in the midfield, however, they have battled to keep the ball with them. Argentina scored. 2-1. The shot is deflected into the rear of the net and Savita caught on her knees as the ball went by her left shoulder. 4TH QUARTER The trapping was an issue in this game, but India was keeping the ball possession better in the midfield in the last quarter. India won the much-needed penalty corner, but couldn't convert India penetrated a lot, and effectively as well, however inside the circle, Argentina have been exceptionally obstinate and have fought away everything. Argentina does merit the win and they do have the right to walk into the finals. India then again ought to be amazingly glad for their endeavors, of what they have accomplished, and of what they were able to do. India will now face Great Britain in the bronze medal match on August 6th at 7 am IST.

Tokyo Olympics: India lose 1-2 to Argentina in women's hockey semi-final, will play for bronze next

Indian men's hockey team lost the semi-final clash against Belgium 2-5 on Tuesday (August 3) at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. Belgium's Alexander Hendrickx scored a stunning hat-trick to take his side into the gold medal match for the second Olympics in succession. India will next play for a third-place finish on Thursday.&nbsp;

Both the teams were off to a thrilling start to the first quarter as India scored two goals back-to-back after Belgium take a 2-1 lead after the Men in Blue conceded an early goal with Loick Luyaert scoring through a penalty corner. For India, Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh were on the score sheet in Q1.

In the second quarter, the tournament's top scorer Alexander Hendrickx produced a brilliant penalty corner drag-flick and struck into the left corner to level 2-2 against India. In the last moments of Q2, India won a penalty corner but Harmanpreet's drag-flick went wide of the target.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-winning-for-my-country-was-important-says-indian-badminton-star-pv-sindhu-on-her-olympics-bronze-402342">EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze</a>

In the third quarter, India won a penalty corner, but the Belgium team defended it well as the score was 2-2 at the end of Q3. Both the teams were brilliant with their defending in the third quarter.&nbsp;

In the fourth quarter, Belgium took the lead 3-2 after Hendrickx scored another unstoppable penalty corner. Hendrickx went on to complete his hat-trick from the penalty spot, and Belgium got a two-goal lead 4-2 when seven minutes were left to play. With six seconds left, John-John Dohmen of Belgium scored another goal for his side as he passed into an open goal, taking the lead to 5-2, which remained the final score of the India vs Belgium semi-final clash.&nbsp;

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Our valiant campaign doesn't result in a Gold or Silver. We're still in contention for the BRONZE though! 
We tried our best but Belgium came better in the 4️⃣th Quarter. 
We face either Australia or Germany next in the bronze medal match. 
Stay tuned for more updates. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/Kkzuckzxlg">pic.twitter.com/Kkzuckzxlg</a>
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Previously, India had booked a place in the semi-final through a 3-1 win against Great Britain in the quarterfinals This was their first semis since 1972. On the other hand, Belgium defeated Spain 3-1 to enter the semi-final of the event.&nbsp;

Indian men's hockey team lost the semi-final clash against Belgium 2-5 on Tuesday (August 3) at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. Belgium's Alexander Hendrickx scored a stunning hat-trick to take his side into the gold medal match for the second Olympics in succession.

Indian men's hockey team lost the semi-final clash against Belgium 2-5 on Tuesday (August 3) at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. Belgium's Alexander Hendrickx scored a stunning hat-trick to take his side into the gold medal match for the second Olympics in succession. India will next play for a third-place finish on Thursday. Both the teams were off to a thrilling start to the first quarter as India scored two goals back-to-back after Belgium take a 2-1 lead after the Men in Blue conceded an early goal with Loick Luyaert scoring through a penalty corner. For India, Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh were on the score sheet in Q1. In the second quarter, the tournament's top scorer Alexander Hendrickx produced a brilliant penalty corner drag-flick and struck into the left corner to level 2-2 against India. In the last moments of Q2, India won a penalty corner but Harmanpreet's drag-flick went wide of the target. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze In the third quarter, India won a penalty corner, but the Belgium team defended it well as the score was 2-2 at the end of Q3. Both the teams were brilliant with their defending in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, Belgium took the lead 3-2 after Hendrickx scored another unstoppable penalty corner. Hendrickx went on to complete his hat-trick from the penalty spot, and Belgium got a two-goal lead 4-2 when seven minutes were left to play. With six seconds left, John-John Dohmen of Belgium scored another goal for his side as he passed into an open goal, taking the lead to 5-2, which remained the final score of the India vs Belgium semi-final clash. Our valiant campaign doesn't result in a Gold or Silver. We're still in contention for the BRONZE though! We tried our best but Belgium came better in the 4️⃣th Quarter. We face either Australia or Germany next in the bronze medal match. Stay tuned for more updates. #Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/Kkzuckzxlg — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 3, 2021 × Previously, India had booked a place in the semi-final through a 3-1 win against Great Britain in the quarterfinals This was their first semis since 1972. On the other hand, Belgium defeated Spain 3-1 to enter the semi-final of the event.

Tokyo Olympics: India lose 2-5 to Belgium in men's hockey semi-final, will compete for bronze next

Born in Haryana, Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia made her introduction in the international hockey circuit in 2008, during a four-country event of Germany and the Netherlands.

As a little youngster, Savita used to travel 30 km multiple times each week from her town Jodhkan to Sirsa to sharpen her hockey abilities. Maharaja Agrasain school was the lone spot around her town that had hockey training facilities and coaches.

Nobody in her family had taken up any sport as a profession. It was her grandfather who urged her to play the game and not surrender when things got intense.

At the age of 17, Savita made her debut in the international circuit after showing incredible potential in the junior group.

In 2013, she took part in the women's Asia Cup which was one of her best matches. Savita Punia saved two essential goals in the penalty shoot-out, which assisted India with winning a bronze medal.&nbsp;

Additionally, she was also a part of the bronze medal-winning team at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-team-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

She was instrumental in assisting the women's team with qualifying for the Rio Olympics after 36 years. She saved a foremost goal against Japan, which assisted them with winning 1-0.&nbsp;

In the 2018 Asia Cup, Savita showed her abilities once more, as she saved an extraordinary goal against China, which permitted her to win the goalkeeper of the tournament, and a place in the 2018 World Cup in London.

Her exceptional exhibition assisted the women's Indian team with beating Chile in the last match of the Women's Hockey World League Round two.&nbsp;

She was granted the Baljit Singh Goalkeeper of the Year award at the Hockey India Annual Awards in 2015, for having wonderful exhibitions for India in international commitments which demonstrated her value as the best goalkeeper in the country.

Savita Punia has been significant for the Indian women's hockey team in getting a few wins throughout the long term.&nbsp;

The quarter-final of Tokyo Olympics was one such day where Indian spectators couldn't contain their bliss as the women's team qualified for the semi-finals for the first time. Regardless of the torrent of attacks by the Australians, the "Indian wall" couldn't be penetrated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-i-think-this-is-the-chak-de-india-in-reality-says-indian-womens-hockey-coach-402361" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: 'I think this is the Chak de India in reality,' says Indian women's hockey coach</a>

A tremendous part of this splendor could be credited to the thrilling Savita Punia. The Indian goalkeeper was brilliant today and made things extremely challenging for the mighty Aussies.

Her marvelous saves in the middle of the posts assisted India with keeping the lead all through the game, taking a 1-0 success over Australia.&nbsp;

The Aussies continued attacking, just to have the entirety of their endeavors denied by Indian women's best goalkeeper, Savita Punia.

The astonishing goalkeeper pulled of dazzling saves from penalty corners just as open play. An aggregate of nine&nbsp;penalty corner saves were made by the Indian goalkeeper.&nbsp;

She displayed her defense splendidly, and the undaunted backline didn't allow the Aussies to draw things level, subsequently helping India to quite possibly the most noteworthy successes over the years.

Born in Haryana, Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia made her introduction in the international hockey circuit in 2008, during a four-country event of Germany and the Netherlands.

Born in Haryana, Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia made her introduction in the international hockey circuit in 2008, during a four-country event of Germany and the Netherlands. As a little youngster, Savita used to travel 30 km multiple times each week from her town Jodhkan to Sirsa to sharpen her hockey abilities. Maharaja Agrasain school was the lone spot around her town that had hockey training facilities and coaches. Nobody in her family had taken up any sport as a profession. It was her grandfather who urged her to play the game and not surrender when things got intense. At the age of 17, Savita made her debut in the international circuit after showing incredible potential in the junior group. In 2013, she took part in the women's Asia Cup which was one of her best matches. Savita Punia saved two essential goals in the penalty shoot-out, which assisted India with winning a bronze medal. Additionally, she was also a part of the bronze medal-winning team at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time She was instrumental in assisting the women's team with qualifying for the Rio Olympics after 36 years. She saved a foremost goal against Japan, which assisted them with winning 1-0. In the 2018 Asia Cup, Savita showed her abilities once more, as she saved an extraordinary goal against China, which permitted her to win the goalkeeper of the tournament, and a place in the 2018 World Cup in London. Her exceptional exhibition assisted the women's Indian team with beating Chile in the last match of the Women's Hockey World League Round two. She was granted the Baljit Singh Goalkeeper of the Year award at the Hockey India Annual Awards in 2015, for having wonderful exhibitions for India in international commitments which demonstrated her value as the best goalkeeper in the country. Savita Punia has been significant for the Indian women's hockey team in getting a few wins throughout the long term. The quarter-final of Tokyo Olympics was one such day where Indian spectators couldn't contain their bliss as the women's team qualified for the semi-finals for the first time. Regardless of the torrent of attacks by the Australians, the "Indian wall" couldn't be penetrated. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: 'I think this is the Chak de India in reality,' says Indian women's hockey coach A tremendous part of this splendor could be credited to the thrilling Savita Punia. The Indian goalkeeper was brilliant today and made things extremely challenging for the mighty Aussies. Her marvelous saves in the middle of the posts assisted India with keeping the lead all through the game, taking a 1-0 success over Australia. The Aussies continued attacking, just to have the entirety of their endeavors denied by Indian women's best goalkeeper, Savita Punia. The astonishing goalkeeper pulled of dazzling saves from penalty corners just as open play. An aggregate of nine penalty corner saves were made by the Indian goalkeeper. She displayed her defense splendidly, and the undaunted backline didn't allow the Aussies to draw things level, subsequently helping India to quite possibly the most noteworthy successes over the years.

Olympics: 'The Great Wall' Savita Punia is 'keeping' India's hopes at Tokyo 2020

History was scripted&nbsp;when the hooter was blown for the last time on Monday during the Indian women's hockey team quarterfinal match against Australia concerning the first run through in the set of experiences the Indian women's team got an Olympic semifinal billet.&nbsp;

Gurjit Kaur scored from a penalty corner in the second quarter was sufficient for India to progress to the detriment of three-time champions and world no.2 Australia. India put&nbsp;a tough execution all through the match and effectively guarded nine penalty corners in the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-indian-womens-hockey-team-beat-australia-1-0-to-enter-semis-at-olympics-for-the-first-time-402319" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time</a>

"How my heart was? It's still working. I was like but that's in every match in the last three games," women's team coach Sjoerd Marijne said.&nbsp;

"Oh man, what we've tried to do and what we have done is work match by match. What can we improve in the next one and the next one", he added.&nbsp;

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Sorry family , I coming again later 😊❤️ <a href="https://t.co/h4uUTqx11F">pic.twitter.com/h4uUTqx11F</a>
— Sjoerd Marijne (@SjoerdMarijne) <a href="https://twitter.com/SjoerdMarijne/status/1422070304252129284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sjoerd Marijne brought up that his team was not particularly good at defending in the match.&nbsp;

"The defending was not good enough especially defending in the circle. So we focussed on that. It also helps keep your mind away from winning and losing," he said.

"It's all about the mindset. I told the girls that we have nothing to lose, so play free, and that's what we did today. It's like a dream come true. I think this is the Chak De India in reality," he added.&nbsp;

A video of Sjoerd Marijne is becoming a web sensation on the internet as he can be seen breaking down in tears as team India crushed Australia in the quarter-finals to arrive at the Olympics semi-finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-winning-for-my-country-was-important-says-indian-badminton-star-pv-sindhu-on-her-olympics-bronze-402342" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze</a>

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Thank you chief, we love you. <a href="https://t.co/5kKLlmWpJG">pic.twitter.com/5kKLlmWpJG</a>
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Coming into the match, the chances were absolutely against India as in world no.2 Australia, a powerful unbeaten rival, anticipated them.&nbsp;

Yet, Team India made a statement, delivered a solid and bold execution to squeeze out the restricted win over the mighty Aussies. Gurjit Kaur adapted to the situation when it made a difference and changed over India's solitary penalty corner in the 22nd minute to astonish the Australians.&nbsp;

India's best display in the Olympics returned way in the 1980 Moscow Games where they completed fourth out of six teams. In the current edition of the Games, women's hockey made its introduction in the Olympics and the game was played in a robin-round format with the top two teams fitting the bill for the final.&nbsp;

Next up for Rani Rampal and her group is Argentina, who beat Germany 3-0 in the second quarterfinal match.

History was scripted when the hooter was blown for the last time on Monday during the Indian women's hockey team quarterfinal match against Australia concerning the first run through in the set of experiences the Indian women's team got an Olympic semifinal billet.

History was scripted when the hooter was blown for the last time on Monday during the Indian women's hockey team quarterfinal match against Australia concerning the first run through in the set of experiences the Indian women's team got an Olympic semifinal billet. Gurjit Kaur scored from a penalty corner in the second quarter was sufficient for India to progress to the detriment of three-time champions and world no.2 Australia. India put a tough execution all through the match and effectively guarded nine penalty corners in the match. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Indian women's hockey team beat Australia 1-0 to enter semis at Olympics for the first time "How my heart was? It's still working. I was like but that's in every match in the last three games," women's team coach Sjoerd Marijne said. "Oh man, what we've tried to do and what we have done is work match by match. What can we improve in the next one and the next one", he added. Sorry family , I coming again later 😊❤️ pic.twitter.com/h4uUTqx11F — Sjoerd Marijne (@SjoerdMarijne) August 2, 2021 × Sjoerd Marijne brought up that his team was not particularly good at defending in the match. "The defending was not good enough especially defending in the circle. So we focussed on that. It also helps keep your mind away from winning and losing," he said. "It's all about the mindset. I told the girls that we have nothing to lose, so play free, and that's what we did today. It's like a dream come true. I think this is the Chak De India in reality," he added. A video of Sjoerd Marijne is becoming a web sensation on the internet as he can be seen breaking down in tears as team India crushed Australia in the quarter-finals to arrive at the Olympics semi-finals. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze Thank you chief, we love you. pic.twitter.com/5kKLlmWpJG — Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) August 2, 2021 × Coming into the match, the chances were absolutely against India as in world no.2 Australia, a powerful unbeaten rival, anticipated them. Yet, Team India made a statement, delivered a solid and bold execution to squeeze out the restricted win over the mighty Aussies. Gurjit Kaur adapted to the situation when it made a difference and changed over India's solitary penalty corner in the 22nd minute to astonish the Australians. India's best display in the Olympics returned way in the 1980 Moscow Games where they completed fourth out of six teams. In the current edition of the Games, women's hockey made its introduction in the Olympics and the game was played in a robin-round format with the top two teams fitting the bill for the final. Next up for Rani Rampal and her group is Argentina, who beat Germany 3-0 in the second quarterfinal match.

Tokyo Olympics: 'I think this is the Chak de India in reality,' says Indian women's hockey coach

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina.

A powerful performance by goalkeeper Andrew Charter, who kept a clean sheet in the shootouts - won 3-0 by Australia after the score was 2-2 at the end of regular playing time - helped the Kookaburras win the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-satish-kumar-crashes-out-after-losing-to-bakhodir-jalolov-in-mens-boxing-quarterfinals-402125" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Satish Kumar crashes out after losing to Bakhodir Jalolov in men's boxing quarterfinals</a>

"It's bloody amazing," said Charter. "To come out here and carry the burden for a bit, it's good for my confidence and it's good for the team defensively moving forward."

The Australians had pulled ahead twice in the game, thanks to two goals by Tom Wickham, only to see the hard-fighting Dutch side equalise through goals by Mink van der Weerden and Jeroen Hertzberger.

Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak recognised Charter's role in the shootouts.

"Charter saved a few and it was hard to get pressure on the Aussies," he said.

"I think if you miss three (penalty shots) and they score three, they deserve to win."

The result meant the Dutch men's squad won't play the semi-finals of the Olympic hockey tournament for the first time since 1984.

<h2>GERMAN WIN</h2>

Australia will face Germany on Tuesday after the Germans secured an easy victory over Olympic champions Argentina.

Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball.

Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after scoring through another penalty corner, which gave them little left to fear from the Argentineans.

"It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christopher Ruhr.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-india-to-face-australia-in-the-womens-hockey-quarter-finals-402113" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals</a>

The fourth quarter saw one goal from each side, including Windfeder's second, leaving the final score at 3-1.

Officials doubled the usual two-minute breaks between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth.

The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio&nbsp;Olympics, when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina.

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina. A powerful performance by goalkeeper Andrew Charter, who kept a clean sheet in the shootouts - won 3-0 by Australia after the score was 2-2 at the end of regular playing time - helped the Kookaburras win the match. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Satish Kumar crashes out after losing to Bakhodir Jalolov in men's boxing quarterfinals "It's bloody amazing," said Charter. "To come out here and carry the burden for a bit, it's good for my confidence and it's good for the team defensively moving forward." The Australians had pulled ahead twice in the game, thanks to two goals by Tom Wickham, only to see the hard-fighting Dutch side equalise through goals by Mink van der Weerden and Jeroen Hertzberger. Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak recognised Charter's role in the shootouts. "Charter saved a few and it was hard to get pressure on the Aussies," he said. "I think if you miss three (penalty shots) and they score three, they deserve to win." The result meant the Dutch men's squad won't play the semi-finals of the Olympic hockey tournament for the first time since 1984. GERMAN WIN Australia will face Germany on Tuesday after the Germans secured an easy victory over Olympic champions Argentina. Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball. Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after scoring through another penalty corner, which gave them little left to fear from the Argentineans. "It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christopher Ruhr. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals The fourth quarter saw one goal from each side, including Windfeder's second, leaving the final score at 3-1. Officials doubled the usual two-minute breaks between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth. The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio Olympics, when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Tokyo 2020: Australia to face Germany in men's Hockey semis, Argentina, Netherlands bow out

Germany became the first country to reach the semi-finals in the men's hockey tournament after a smooth 3-1 win over Olympic champions Argentina in sauna-like conditions at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;on Sunday.

Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-simone-biles-withdraws-from-another-olympic-final-usa-gymnastics-402104" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020- Simone Biles withdraws from another Olympic final: USA Gymnastics</a>

Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after playing out another penalty corner in a beautiful variation which ended with Timm Herzbruch deflecting a low pass from captain Tobias Hauke into the goal.

By then, the Germans had little left to fear from the Argentineans.

"It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German-style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christoph Ruhr.

"We had the game in our hands 60 minutes. A very mature play by us."

Windfeder scored another goal, again through a penalty corner, in the 48th minute, effectively securing Germany's spot in the semi-finals and leaving Argentina with a painful loss.

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With eight minutes left to&nbsp;go, Maico Casella Schuth scored off a penalty corner for Argentina, but they were not able to add to their score.

Officials doubled the usual two-minute between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth.

The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio&nbsp;Olympics when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Argentina's lineup in Tokyo still contained many of the names that brought the country their first Olympic gold medal in hockey in 2016: Pedro Ibarra, Agustin Mazzilli, Matias Rey, and 42-year-old goalie Vivaldi.

Germany will play their semi-finals on Tuesday against the winner of the clash between Australia and the Netherlands. The Kookaburras led that match 1-0 at halftime.

Germany became the first country to reach the semi-finals in the men's hockey tournament after a smooth 3-1 win over Olympic champions Argentina in sauna-like conditions at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday.

Germany became the first country to reach the semi-finals in the men's hockey tournament after a smooth 3-1 win over Olympic champions Argentina in sauna-like conditions at the Tokyo Olympics on Sunday. Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020- Simone Biles withdraws from another Olympic final: USA Gymnastics Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after playing out another penalty corner in a beautiful variation which ended with Timm Herzbruch deflecting a low pass from captain Tobias Hauke into the goal. By then, the Germans had little left to fear from the Argentineans. "It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German-style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christoph Ruhr. "We had the game in our hands 60 minutes. A very mature play by us." Windfeder scored another goal, again through a penalty corner, in the 48th minute, effectively securing Germany's spot in the semi-finals and leaving Argentina with a painful loss. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics athletics: US sprinter Richardson applauds Jamaica's 100m clean sweep With eight minutes left to go, Maico Casella Schuth scored off a penalty corner for Argentina, but they were not able to add to their score. Officials doubled the usual two-minute between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth. The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio Olympics when the Germans had to settle for bronze. Argentina's lineup in Tokyo still contained many of the names that brought the country their first Olympic gold medal in hockey in 2016: Pedro Ibarra, Agustin Mazzilli, Matias Rey, and 42-year-old goalie Vivaldi. Germany will play their semi-finals on Tuesday against the winner of the clash between Australia and the Netherlands. The Kookaburras led that match 1-0 at halftime.

Tokyo Olympics: Hockey - Germany reaches semis with 3-1 win over Argentina

India crushed Great Britain 3-1 in the men's hockey quarter-final to acquire a spot in the semi-finals at the Tokyo Olympics. The Manpreet Singh-drove side will go head to head against the 2018 titleholders Belgium in the keep going four on Tuesday.&nbsp;

India took advantage of the defensive mistakes from Great Britain since the beginning of the match. A relaxed exertion from the Britain defense permitted Simranjeet Singh to put his stick and take the ball. He passed it to Dilpreet Singh who was not being covered by anybody and he scored his second goal.&nbsp;

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India's subsequent goal came towards the beginning of the second quarter as Indian midfield captured a pass from Britain and made a long pass to Gurjant Singh inside the circle. Gurjant picked the ball, contorted, turned, and struck it into the net to double India's lead.&nbsp;

India's defense stayed prevailing for the vast majority of the second and second from last quarter. A penalty corner in the last couple of minutes of the second from last quarter permitted Sam Ward to get a goal back, pushing India in for a brazen last 15 minutes.&nbsp;

Skipper Manpreet Singh was given a yellow card, and India went one man down, maybe Britain may push the match to a shootout. Yet, Hardik Singh created a moment of mastery with 3.25 minutes left on the clock, as he scored another goal to stretch out India's lead to 3-1.&nbsp;

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Amidst rehashed attempts, Britain couldn't get another in the last three minutes and were dispensed with. Indian players enjoyed and emotionally celebrated on the turf, having made it to the semifinals.&nbsp;

It has been a decent excursion for India men's hockey group in Tokyo Olympics up until this point, crushing New Zealand 3-2 in their initial group game, and then getting wins upon Germany (2-0), Spain (3-1), Argentina (3-1), and Japan (5-3) in the group matches. Apart from the 7-1 loss against Australia, India have dominated all their matches.

India crushed Great Britain 3-1 in the men's hockey quarter-final to acquire a spot in the semi-finals at the Tokyo Olympics. The Manpreet Singh-drove side will go head to head against the 2018 titleholders Belgium in the keep going four on Tuesday.

India crushed Great Britain 3-1 in the men's hockey quarter-final to acquire a spot in the semi-finals at the Tokyo Olympics. The Manpreet Singh-drove side will go head to head against the 2018 titleholders Belgium in the keep going four on Tuesday. India took advantage of the defensive mistakes from Great Britain since the beginning of the match. A relaxed exertion from the Britain defense permitted Simranjeet Singh to put his stick and take the ball. He passed it to Dilpreet Singh who was not being covered by anybody and he scored his second goal. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze India's subsequent goal came towards the beginning of the second quarter as Indian midfield captured a pass from Britain and made a long pass to Gurjant Singh inside the circle. Gurjant picked the ball, contorted, turned, and struck it into the net to double India's lead. India's defense stayed prevailing for the vast majority of the second and second from last quarter. A penalty corner in the last couple of minutes of the second from last quarter permitted Sam Ward to get a goal back, pushing India in for a brazen last 15 minutes. Skipper Manpreet Singh was given a yellow card, and India went one man down, maybe Britain may push the match to a shootout. Yet, Hardik Singh created a moment of mastery with 3.25 minutes left on the clock, as he scored another goal to stretch out India's lead to 3-1. ALSO READ: 'Inspirational champion': Twitter reacts as PV Sindhu wins Bronze at Tokyo Olympics Amidst rehashed attempts, Britain couldn't get another in the last three minutes and were dispensed with. Indian players enjoyed and emotionally celebrated on the turf, having made it to the semifinals. It has been a decent excursion for India men's hockey group in Tokyo Olympics up until this point, crushing New Zealand 3-2 in their initial group game, and then getting wins upon Germany (2-0), Spain (3-1), Argentina (3-1), and Japan (5-3) in the group matches. Apart from the 7-1 loss against Australia, India have dominated all their matches.

Tokyo Olympics: Indian men's hockey team advances to semifinals after beating Great Britain

The Indian men's hockey team will confront Great Britain in the quarterfinals of the Olympics 2021.&nbsp;

The Indians, who were guaranteed of a spot in the knock outs, beat Japan 5-3 in their last match in Group while Great Britain held World Champions Belgium to a 2-2 attract their final Group B clash.&nbsp;

Three-time gold medallist Great Britain, who have been depicted as the surprisingly strong contenders of Olympics 2021, have won three of their five league matches in Tokyo.&nbsp;

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The Indians have demonstrated they are equipped for beating the best on their day, which was obvious during their 2020 Hockey Pro League crusade.&nbsp;

<h2>India&nbsp;</h2>

India's persevering defenders should be on their toes - particularly against Britain's Liam Ansell, who has scored four field goals for his group.&nbsp;

The Manpreet-drove midfield should proceed with its great work to help their associates on back and forward lines.&nbsp;The Indian forwards, including Gurjant Singh and Simranjeet Singh, have performed better as the event has advanced.&nbsp;

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The greatest certain about India's display in the group stage was the manner in which it retaliated subsequent to experiencing a major loss to Australia.&nbsp;

<h2>Great Britain&nbsp;</h2>

Extraordinary Britain had two successes against lower-positioned South Africa (3-1) and Canada (3-1). It drew with Belgium (2-2) and Netherlands (2-2) and lost to Germany (5-1) to get eight focuses and was set third in Pool B.&nbsp;

While an Olympic quarterfinal is an alternate ball game through and through, the India team&nbsp;will back themselves against Great Britain, albeit the challenge could be a close finish.

The Indian men's hockey team will confront Great Britain in the quarterfinals of the Olympics 2021. The Indians, who were guaranteed of a spot in the knock outs, beat Japan 5-3 in their last match in Group while Great Britain held World Champions Belgium to a 2-2 attract their final Group B clash.

The Indian men's hockey team will confront Great Britain in the quarterfinals of the Olympics 2021. The Indians, who were guaranteed of a spot in the knock outs, beat Japan 5-3 in their last match in Group while Great Britain held World Champions Belgium to a 2-2 attract their final Group B clash. Three-time gold medallist Great Britain, who have been depicted as the surprisingly strong contenders of Olympics 2021, have won three of their five league matches in Tokyo. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Police investigate as athletes involved in 'drinking incident' in Olympic Village The Indians have demonstrated they are equipped for beating the best on their day, which was obvious during their 2020 Hockey Pro League crusade. India India's persevering defenders should be on their toes - particularly against Britain's Liam Ansell, who has scored four field goals for his group. The Manpreet-drove midfield should proceed with its great work to help their associates on back and forward lines. The Indian forwards, including Gurjant Singh and Simranjeet Singh, have performed better as the event has advanced. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: Tokyo heat roasts outdoor athletes amid heat-stroke risk The greatest certain about India's display in the group stage was the manner in which it retaliated subsequent to experiencing a major loss to Australia. Great Britain Extraordinary Britain had two successes against lower-positioned South Africa (3-1) and Canada (3-1). It drew with Belgium (2-2) and Netherlands (2-2) and lost to Germany (5-1) to get eight focuses and was set third in Pool B. While an Olympic quarterfinal is an alternate ball game through and through, the India team will back themselves against Great Britain, albeit the challenge could be a close finish.

Tokyo Olympics: Team India takes on Great Britain in men's Hockey quarter-finals

Indian men's hockey team thrashed hosts Japan in their final match of Pool A on Friday. The Men in Blue thrashed Japan 5-3 and will have much-needed confidence before they head into the quarter-finals of the event.&nbsp;

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The Indians were dominating from the very first quarter. They took a lead after winning a penalty corner. However, Japan fought back and by the end of the third quarter, scores were 3-2 with India leading.&nbsp;

Japan came back with a goal as Tanaka opened the team`s account. In the third quarter, Kota Watanabe scored an equaliser but Shamsher Singh again put India on top as he scored a goal in the 34th minute.&nbsp;

At the end of the third quarter, India led 3-2 with a thrilling final quarter on cards.&nbsp;

In the final quarter, Nilakanta Sharma doubled India's lead after a desperate attempt from both sides to find the net.&nbsp;

Earlier, Indian badminton star PV Sindhu booked herself a berth in the semifinals in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 after beating Japan's Akane Yamaguchi in the quarter-finals in the women's singles badminton.&nbsp;

However, India's Deepika Kumari and Manu Bhaker lost in Archery and 25m pistol, respectively.&nbsp;

(Inputs from Agency)

Indian men's hockey team thrashed hosts Japan in their final match of Pool A on Friday. The Men in Blue thrashed Japan 5-3 and will have much-needed confidence before they head into the quarter-finals of the event.

Indian men's hockey team thrashed hosts Japan in their final match of Pool A on Friday. The Men in Blue thrashed Japan 5-3 and will have much-needed confidence before they head into the quarter-finals of the event. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sindhu inches closer towards medal after storming into semis The Indians were dominating from the very first quarter. They took a lead after winning a penalty corner. However, Japan fought back and by the end of the third quarter, scores were 3-2 with India leading. Japan came back with a goal as Tanaka opened the team`s account. In the third quarter, Kota Watanabe scored an equaliser but Shamsher Singh again put India on top as he scored a goal in the 34th minute. At the end of the third quarter, India led 3-2 with a thrilling final quarter on cards. In the final quarter, Nilakanta Sharma doubled India's lead after a desperate attempt from both sides to find the net. Earlier, Indian badminton star PV Sindhu booked herself a berth in the semifinals in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 after beating Japan's Akane Yamaguchi in the quarter-finals in the women's singles badminton. However, India's Deepika Kumari and Manu Bhaker lost in Archery and 25m pistol, respectively. (Inputs from Agency)

Tokyo Olympics, Hockey: Team India beat hosts Japan 5-3 in final Pool A game

On Thursday, the India men's hockey team crushed reigning Olympic Champions Argentina 3-1 in their fourth group A game here at Oi Hockey Stadium - North Pitch. With this success, the group has qualified for the quarterfinals in the Olympics.&nbsp;

After goalless initial two quarters, India broke the gridlock in the 43rd moment through Varun Kumar before Vivek Sagar Prasad (58th) and Harmanpreet Singh (59th) struck in the end minutes of the match to seal the challenge.&nbsp;

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India have solidified their spot in the second spot of Pool A with three successes and one loss out of four games, behind Australia.&nbsp;

Argentina are battling at the fifth spot in the six-group pool and need to beat New Zealand in their final group match on Friday to remain in the chase for a quarterfinal.&nbsp;

The best four make the last-eight phase from each group. India will play Japan in their last pool match on Friday.&nbsp;

The Indians were forceful and squeezed the Argentine defense from the start, attacking in numbers. India totally overwhelmed the first quarter, mounting a large number of attacks yet the Argentines shielded strongly to baffle their rivals.&nbsp;

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The Indians ruled possession and infiltrated the Argentine circle on various events yet the final pass was absent. However, The absence of inventiveness in the striking circle stays a worry for India, which has neglected to improve, particularly down the right flank with passes that were all around unsurprising.&nbsp;

Manpreet and co. will be facing solid European sides like Belgium, the Netherlands, or Germany in the knock-out game and all have a lot of involvement with their defensive line-ups. India should consolidate better in and around the striking circle.&nbsp;

What was cheering, nevertheless, was the way where young Dilpreet Singh and Vivek Sagar joined to score India's subsequent goal, which viably was the defining moment of the game.

On Thursday, the India men's hockey team crushed reigning Olympic Champions Argentina 3-1 in their fourth group A game here at Oi Hockey Stadium - North Pitch. With this success, the group has qualified for the quarterfinals in the Olympics.

On Thursday, the India men's hockey team crushed reigning Olympic Champions Argentina 3-1 in their fourth group A game here at Oi Hockey Stadium - North Pitch. With this success, the group has qualified for the quarterfinals in the Olympics. After goalless initial two quarters, India broke the gridlock in the 43rd moment through Varun Kumar before Vivek Sagar Prasad (58th) and Harmanpreet Singh (59th) struck in the end minutes of the match to seal the challenge. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics- 'Wake-up call for us': Manpreet Singh on Australia thrashing India have solidified their spot in the second spot of Pool A with three successes and one loss out of four games, behind Australia. Argentina are battling at the fifth spot in the six-group pool and need to beat New Zealand in their final group match on Friday to remain in the chase for a quarterfinal. The best four make the last-eight phase from each group. India will play Japan in their last pool match on Friday. The Indians were forceful and squeezed the Argentine defense from the start, attacking in numbers. India totally overwhelmed the first quarter, mounting a large number of attacks yet the Argentines shielded strongly to baffle their rivals. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: 63-member Australian athletics team in isolation after US pole-vaulter tests positive for COVID-19 The Indians ruled possession and infiltrated the Argentine circle on various events yet the final pass was absent. However, The absence of inventiveness in the striking circle stays a worry for India, which has neglected to improve, particularly down the right flank with passes that were all around unsurprising. Manpreet and co. will be facing solid European sides like Belgium, the Netherlands, or Germany in the knock-out game and all have a lot of involvement with their defensive line-ups. India should consolidate better in and around the striking circle. What was cheering, nevertheless, was the way where young Dilpreet Singh and Vivek Sagar joined to score India's subsequent goal, which viably was the defining moment of the game.

Tokyo 2020: India beat defending champions Argentina 3-1 and advance to the quarter-finals

The Indian women's hockey team played their hearts out in their second Tokyo Olympics encounter against the World Number 3 Germany side at the Oi Hockey Stadium in Tokyo on Monday. The Indian team had many chances to score, but couldn't find a way to get on board, before going down 0-2 against the Germans.

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The Germany team kept most of the possession of the ball in the opening minutes of the first quarter before India's Sharmila Devi found a way to make a fantastic run on the left flank in the fourth minute, however, the German defense kept the Indians at bay. Thereafter, the German side put more pressure on the Indian goal, driving the ball through the middle in the 7th minute, but the Indian defense stood tall and kept the ball away from the goal. Sharmila made another brilliant run, this time through the middle of the pitch, and passed the ball to Udita. The Striker dived forward to convert the pass into a goal, but couldn't find a way to do so. A few moments later, the Germans earned a Penalty Corner and Captain Nike Lorenz (12') didn't miss out on the opportunity to help Germany take a 1-0 lead.

The World Number 3 side had a chance to score early in the second quarter, but the Indian defense kept the ball away from the goal. The Germans continued to put pressure on their opponents, however, the Indian defense stood tall and ensured that the Germans didn’t find the back of the net. The World Number 3 side earned a Penalty Corner in the 6th minute of the third quarter. They took a shot, but it was calmly deflected away by Salima Tete. Thereafter, Vandana Katariya made a fantastic run on the left flank in the 10th minute of the second quarter, however, she couldn't find a way to open India's account. The Indians put more pressure on the Germans, but the German defense proved to be too strong.

The Indians started the third quarter aggressively and earned their first Penalty Corner in the second minute of the third quarter. India Captain Rani took a shot and the ball deflected off Lisa Altenburg's thigh, following which, Rani quickly asked for a referral and appealed for a Penalty Stroke. India were awarded the Penalty Stroke, however, Gurjit Kaur couldn't convert the opportunity. Soon after, the Germans made an inroad into the Indian circle and Anne Schröder (35') took a fantastic shot from the right and helped Germany take a 2-0 lead. The Indians were not deterred by the setback and continued to fight against the Germans. In the 7th minute of the third quarter, Vandana made a brilliant intercept and made a run all the way to the goal, but her shot was saved by the German Goalkeeper. India continued to put pressure on the Germans but just couldn't find a way to get on the board.

India started the fourth quarter brilliantly. Navneet Kaur made a fantastic run on the right flank and passed the ball to Vandana, however, the latter looped the ball over the crossbar. The Germans earned a Penalty Corner shortly after and Captain Lorenz took a shot, which was brilliantly deflected away by Monika. The Indian team made a few circle penetrations in the last few minutes of the match, but the Germans kept the Indians at bay and sealed a 2-0 victory.

In their third Pool A match on Wednesday 28 July 2021 at 0630hrs IST, India will take on Great Britain.

The Indian women's hockey team played their hearts out in their second Tokyo Olympics encounter against the World Number 3 Germany side at the Oi Hockey Stadium in Tokyo on Monday.

The Indian women's hockey team played their hearts out in their second Tokyo Olympics encounter against the World Number 3 Germany side at the Oi Hockey Stadium in Tokyo on Monday. The Indian team had many chances to score, but couldn't find a way to get on board, before going down 0-2 against the Germans. ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback The Germany team kept most of the possession of the ball in the opening minutes of the first quarter before India's Sharmila Devi found a way to make a fantastic run on the left flank in the fourth minute, however, the German defense kept the Indians at bay. Thereafter, the German side put more pressure on the Indian goal, driving the ball through the middle in the 7th minute, but the Indian defense stood tall and kept the ball away from the goal. Sharmila made another brilliant run, this time through the middle of the pitch, and passed the ball to Udita. The Striker dived forward to convert the pass into a goal, but couldn't find a way to do so. A few moments later, the Germans earned a Penalty Corner and Captain Nike Lorenz (12') didn't miss out on the opportunity to help Germany take a 1-0 lead. The World Number 3 side had a chance to score early in the second quarter, but the Indian defense kept the ball away from the goal. The Germans continued to put pressure on their opponents, however, the Indian defense stood tall and ensured that the Germans didn’t find the back of the net. The World Number 3 side earned a Penalty Corner in the 6th minute of the third quarter. They took a shot, but it was calmly deflected away by Salima Tete. Thereafter, Vandana Katariya made a fantastic run on the left flank in the 10th minute of the second quarter, however, she couldn't find a way to open India's account. The Indians put more pressure on the Germans, but the German defense proved to be too strong. The Indians started the third quarter aggressively and earned their first Penalty Corner in the second minute of the third quarter. India Captain Rani took a shot and the ball deflected off Lisa Altenburg's thigh, following which, Rani quickly asked for a referral and appealed for a Penalty Stroke. India were awarded the Penalty Stroke, however, Gurjit Kaur couldn't convert the opportunity. Soon after, the Germans made an inroad into the Indian circle and Anne Schröder (35') took a fantastic shot from the right and helped Germany take a 2-0 lead. The Indians were not deterred by the setback and continued to fight against the Germans. In the 7th minute of the third quarter, Vandana made a brilliant intercept and made a run all the way to the goal, but her shot was saved by the German Goalkeeper. India continued to put pressure on the Germans but just couldn't find a way to get on the board. India started the fourth quarter brilliantly. Navneet Kaur made a fantastic run on the right flank and passed the ball to Vandana, however, the latter looped the ball over the crossbar. The Germans earned a Penalty Corner shortly after and Captain Lorenz took a shot, which was brilliantly deflected away by Monika. The Indian team made a few circle penetrations in the last few minutes of the match, but the Germans kept the Indians at bay and sealed a 2-0 victory. In their third Pool A match on Wednesday 28 July 2021 at 0630hrs IST, India will take on Great Britain.

Tokyo Olympics, Women's Hockey: Team India loses to Germany 0-2

Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals off penalty corners as India survived some anxious moments to scrape through to a 3-2 win against New Zealand to start their Olympic Games men`s hockey campaign on a winning note here on Saturday. 
 
Rupinderpal Singh had equalised for India in the 10th minute after New Zealand had gone ahead off a penalty corner conversion by Kane Russel. 
 
Harmanpreet scored off successive penalty corners in the 26th and 33rd minute to give India a 3-1 lead. 
 
Stephen Jenness reduced the margin for New Zealand. The Black Sticks created a lot of pressure in the fourth quarter but could not find the equaliser.

Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals off penalty corners as India survived some anxious moments to scrape through to a 3-2 win against New Zealand to start their Olympic Games men`s hockey campaign on a winning note here on Saturday.

Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals off penalty corners as India survived some anxious moments to scrape through to a 3-2 win against New Zealand to start their Olympic Games men`s hockey campaign on a winning note here on Saturday. Rupinderpal Singh had equalised for India in the 10th minute after New Zealand had gone ahead off a penalty corner conversion by Kane Russel. Harmanpreet scored off successive penalty corners in the 26th and 33rd minute to give India a 3-1 lead. Stephen Jenness reduced the margin for New Zealand. The Black Sticks created a lot of pressure in the fourth quarter but could not find the equaliser.

Tokyo Olympics men's hockey: India beat New Zealand 3-2 in first match

The road to Tokyo 2020 has positively not been smooth. However, in the wake of being rescheduled because of the worldwide pandemic and postponed by nearly 12 months, the world's greatest brandishing event is at long last set to transform into action.

The stage is set and the arrangements are finished. From July 23 to August 8, 2021, top competitors from more than 200 nations will seek greatness in the greatest multi-sport event.&nbsp;

The Indian crew as well, have fired up their preparations and would expect to get their best medal haul. Up until now, India has bagged the most number of medals in the 2012 London Olympics by winning two silver and four bronze medals.&nbsp;

Throughout the entire existence of the Olympic Games, India has won an aggregate of 28 medals which involves nine gold, seven silver, and 12 bronze medals. The hockey team has been the most successful by winning 11 medals, trailed by Wrestling with five medals.&nbsp;

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With a look at the truth, India's populace is enormous and we have just 28 Olympic medals in our kitty up until now. To comprehend the 'why' better, we should return to the set of experiences. India started to take part in the Olympics in the year 1900. The Indian field hockey team was prevailing in the opposition, making great dread among the adversaries post the 1920s. After exceptional exhibitions particularly in Hockey, India's reality remaining in the Olympic games started to venture down.&nbsp;

India won a gold in Field Hockey in 1980 and the following time we won a medal was in 1996. You may feel that in the midst of these, what compromised with our sporting culture? There are various perspectives on this subject. Just the Government or the foundation, absence of offices isn't to be accused. Indians for quite a while believed sports to be a sporting movement. How might we deliver medalists when we urge kids just to excel in academics?

It is said that the year 1996 set apart the start of another time for India at the games. Going to the trendy, it is to be accepted that Abhinav Bindra's gold in 2008 changed the elements of sports in India. With not dismissing anybody, sports in India have encountered high points and low points and this is the ideal opportunity to move towards greatness. Individuals examine different games without simply adhering to one and this is an accomplishment in itself.&nbsp;

India delivers such countless commendable competitors consistently but then our medal tally never takes off high and sports infrastructure continues to hold the key.

India&nbsp;needs an appropriate framework for preparation and practice sessions of competitors that could make them more skillful and exceptional to manage a-list contenders. It would have been far superior if our competitors would gain admittance to a better foundation and will play the whole way across the nation to remain rehearsed.

With plans like Target Olympic Podium Scheme, Khelo India, Fit India, we are seeing the Government putting accentuation on allowing an equivalent opportunity to competitors to exhibit their ability. Our competitors have endeavored to get the due acknowledgment that they merit.

Every Olympics is challenging, Tokyo 2020 will be especially overwhelming and will test the personality of each competitor. It's difficult to get ready for an event of this extent when the world is going through such difficulties. Adjusting to the changing circumstances will be the key.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, these entanglements, going into the Olympics, the current unforeseen will be India's best chance at the Olympics than ever. While arriving at double-digits in the medal count isn't completely incomprehensible, this can be India's best chance at Tokyo 2020.

While 28 medals in the Olympics so far can't be named as spectacular, although, there has been a fast ascent in interest in Olympic games in India. Sports infrastructure has improved and with the developing spotlight on sports and fitness, there is no motivation behind why India can't improve.&nbsp;

Like clockwork, basically for a short period, the focus shifts to the Olympics and everyone applauds the Olympic medalists. Whether India penetrates the double-digit hindrance or not, we trust new whizzes rise up out of Tokyo who proceeds to direct and motivate the country.

The road to Tokyo 2020 has positively not been smooth. However, in the wake of being rescheduled because of the worldwide pandemic and postponed by nearly 12 months, the world's greatest brandishing event is at long last set to transform into action.

The road to Tokyo 2020 has positively not been smooth. However, in the wake of being rescheduled because of the worldwide pandemic and postponed by nearly 12 months, the world's greatest brandishing event is at long last set to transform into action. The stage is set and the arrangements are finished. From July 23 to August 8, 2021, top competitors from more than 200 nations will seek greatness in the greatest multi-sport event. The Indian crew as well, have fired up their preparations and would expect to get their best medal haul. Up until now, India has bagged the most number of medals in the 2012 London Olympics by winning two silver and four bronze medals. Throughout the entire existence of the Olympic Games, India has won an aggregate of 28 medals which involves nine gold, seven silver, and 12 bronze medals. The hockey team has been the most successful by winning 11 medals, trailed by Wrestling with five medals. ALSO READ: The invisible hand behind the Tokyo Olympics With a look at the truth, India's populace is enormous and we have just 28 Olympic medals in our kitty up until now. To comprehend the 'why' better, we should return to the set of experiences. India started to take part in the Olympics in the year 1900. The Indian field hockey team was prevailing in the opposition, making great dread among the adversaries post the 1920s. After exceptional exhibitions particularly in Hockey, India's reality remaining in the Olympic games started to venture down. India won a gold in Field Hockey in 1980 and the following time we won a medal was in 1996. You may feel that in the midst of these, what compromised with our sporting culture? There are various perspectives on this subject. Just the Government or the foundation, absence of offices isn't to be accused. Indians for quite a while believed sports to be a sporting movement. How might we deliver medalists when we urge kids just to excel in academics? It is said that the year 1996 set apart the start of another time for India at the games. Going to the trendy, it is to be accepted that Abhinav Bindra's gold in 2008 changed the elements of sports in India. With not dismissing anybody, sports in India have encountered high points and low points and this is the ideal opportunity to move towards greatness. Individuals examine different games without simply adhering to one and this is an accomplishment in itself. India delivers such countless commendable competitors consistently but then our medal tally never takes off high and sports infrastructure continues to hold the key. India needs an appropriate framework for preparation and practice sessions of competitors that could make them more skillful and exceptional to manage a-list contenders. It would have been far superior if our competitors would gain admittance to a better foundation and will play the whole way across the nation to remain rehearsed. With plans like Target Olympic Podium Scheme, Khelo India, Fit India, we are seeing the Government putting accentuation on allowing an equivalent opportunity to competitors to exhibit their ability. Our competitors have endeavored to get the due acknowledgment that they merit. Every Olympics is challenging, Tokyo 2020 will be especially overwhelming and will test the personality of each competitor. It's difficult to get ready for an event of this extent when the world is going through such difficulties. Adjusting to the changing circumstances will be the key. Nevertheless, these entanglements, going into the Olympics, the current unforeseen will be India's best chance at the Olympics than ever. While arriving at double-digits in the medal count isn't completely incomprehensible, this can be India's best chance at Tokyo 2020. While 28 medals in the Olympics so far can't be named as spectacular, although, there has been a fast ascent in interest in Olympic games in India. Sports infrastructure has improved and with the developing spotlight on sports and fitness, there is no motivation behind why India can't improve. Like clockwork, basically for a short period, the focus shifts to the Olympics and everyone applauds the Olympic medalists. Whether India penetrates the double-digit hindrance or not, we trust new whizzes rise up out of Tokyo who proceeds to direct and motivate the country.

Tokyo Olympics: Can India breach the double-digit medal tally this year?

India’s journey at the Olympics is synonymous with the sport of Hockey. India won six consecutive Gold medals in the sport on either side of the Second World War and the run yielded 8 Gold medals, a silver and two bronze medals. The trophy cabinet has been barren since 1980 but the Men’s team heads into Tokyo as contenders on merit and not due to sentimental reasons. Chief Coach Graham Reid, Captain Manpreet Singh and Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh spoke about their preparations for the Games with Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

WION Sports | Road to Tokyo: Indian men's Hockey team special

With exactly one month to go for the Tokyo Olympic Games, the Olympic fever is slowly engulfing the entire sporting world. While the Indian athletes carry out their high-octane practice sessions, it's time for the hockey fans relive the memories from the triumphant Olympic campaigns in the past through Hockey India's Flashback Series.&nbsp;

Former Indian Hockey Forward Gurdev Singh recalls the fond&nbsp;memories from the 1956 Olympics.

Gurdev Singh, who played an integral part in India's Gold Medal victory at the 1956 Olympics in Melbourne, reminisced playing alongside the great Balbir Singh Sr. The 87-year-old recounted that if Balbir Singh got into the D, he would definitely find the back of the net, "We played with five Forwards in that tournament. I scored 5 goals in the Olympics. We all used to practice a lot, but Balbir Singh Sr used to practice much more. Whenever he got into the D, he never missed the goal. He was a really good scorer."

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The former India player added that during a non-Olympic match Balbir Singh Sr was in such good form that he scored every time he got the ball, "There was a match in which Balbir Singh got the ball four-five times and he converted each one of those chances into goals. Then he said, 'if you keep giving me the ball, then I'll keep scoring and keep playing for four-five years'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-tokyo-2020-organisers-ban-alcohol-defend-allowing-spectators-393277" hreflang="en">Olympics-Tokyo 2020 organisers ban alcohol, defend allowing spectators</a>

When asked about his memories from the Melbourne Games, Gurdev said, "It was a very happy moment for us. We won all the matches in the 1956 Olympics. This was only the second time that no team had scored against India in the entire Olympics campaign. Our Captain Balbir Singh Sr's finger was broken during the tournament, but he still played for the team. At that time, wherever the Indian Hockey Team went, it always won."

The former India Hockey Forward also spoke about roaming around in Melbourne during the Olympics, "Australia is a great country. During our free time, the entire team went around Melbourne and saw some sights."

Winning an Olympic Medal is a huge achievement for any sportsperson, but the Indian team didn't receive a big reception once they arrived in India. With great pride, Gurdev said that it was normal for India to win a Gold in hockey in those days.

"When we came back from Melbourne with the Gold Medal, there were only three-four persons to receive us at the airport. Everyone expected us to win as it was quite normal for us to win Gold Medals in the Olympics," signed off Gurdev."

With exactly one month to go for the Tokyo Olympic Games, the Olympic fever is slowly engulfing the entire sporting world. While the Indian athletes carry out their high-octane practice sessions, it's time for the hockey fans relive the memories from the triumphant Olympic campaigns in the past through Hockey India's Flashback Series.

With exactly one month to go for the Tokyo Olympic Games, the Olympic fever is slowly engulfing the entire sporting world. While the Indian athletes carry out their high-octane practice sessions, it's time for the hockey fans relive the memories from the triumphant Olympic campaigns in the past through Hockey India's Flashback Series. Former Indian Hockey Forward Gurdev Singh recalls the fond memories from the 1956 Olympics. Gurdev Singh, who played an integral part in India's Gold Medal victory at the 1956 Olympics in Melbourne, reminisced playing alongside the great Balbir Singh Sr. The 87-year-old recounted that if Balbir Singh got into the D, he would definitely find the back of the net, "We played with five Forwards in that tournament. I scored 5 goals in the Olympics. We all used to practice a lot, but Balbir Singh Sr used to practice much more. Whenever he got into the D, he never missed the goal. He was a really good scorer." Former Indian Hockey Forward Gurdev Singh kicks off this campaign with his recollection of the 1956 Olympics. Read 👉 https://t.co/B5EToFpl2C #IndiaKaGame #HaiTayyar #StrongerTogether #HockeyInvites #WeAreTeamIndia #Hockey @FIH_Hockey @Olympics @WeAreTeamIndia pic.twitter.com/SbtOXTOKl5 — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) June 23, 2021 × The former India player added that during a non-Olympic match Balbir Singh Sr was in such good form that he scored every time he got the ball, "There was a match in which Balbir Singh got the ball four-five times and he converted each one of those chances into goals. Then he said, 'if you keep giving me the ball, then I'll keep scoring and keep playing for four-five years'. ALSO READ: Olympics-Tokyo 2020 organisers ban alcohol, defend allowing spectators When asked about his memories from the Melbourne Games, Gurdev said, "It was a very happy moment for us. We won all the matches in the 1956 Olympics. This was only the second time that no team had scored against India in the entire Olympics campaign. Our Captain Balbir Singh Sr's finger was broken during the tournament, but he still played for the team. At that time, wherever the Indian Hockey Team went, it always won." The former India Hockey Forward also spoke about roaming around in Melbourne during the Olympics, "Australia is a great country. During our free time, the entire team went around Melbourne and saw some sights." Winning an Olympic Medal is a huge achievement for any sportsperson, but the Indian team didn't receive a big reception once they arrived in India. With great pride, Gurdev said that it was normal for India to win a Gold in hockey in those days. "When we came back from Melbourne with the Gold Medal, there were only three-four persons to receive us at the airport. Everyone expected us to win as it was quite normal for us to win Gold Medals in the Olympics," signed off Gurdev."

Former Indian hockey forward Gurdev Singh recounts playing with Balbir Singh Sr in 1956 Olympics

Goalkeeper Maddie Hinch thought she had played her last match for Britain when she stepped away from the international hockey arena in the wake of her gold-medal-winning exploits at the Rio&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;in 2016.

Nine weeks before the scheduled start of the delayed Tokyo Games, however, the 32-year-old is back in her familiar role as her country's last line of defence.

Hinch became a household name in 2016, saving all four penalties in an Olympic final shoot-out against the Netherlands.

Two years later she relinquished the jersey and moved to the Netherlands to play club hockey, later saying she had struggled with the self-imposed pressure to perform like a "superhero" every time she put the pads on.

After time out of the spotlight, in 2019 Hinch returned and this weekend keeps the goal for Britain against the U.S. in the FIH Pro League in London as the Games build-up gathers pace.

"Taking a break I knew would put pressure on the shirt, having worked pretty hard to try and get it in the first place," Hinch told Reuters in an interview.

"Once you've got it and you're playing well you have to really play badly to lose it. When I let it go the other two were doing well and I knew if I came back I would have to earn it. It took a while to settle back in and prove to myself that I could still play at that level and still belong."

Hinch said the past year has been an emotional rollercoaster with matches cancelled and little time for team bonding.

To keep herself in shape she has spent hours working out in her garage with gym equipment provided by energy drink company Red Bull, whose stable of international athletes she is part of.

But while the 12-month postponement of the Games because of COVID-19 was frustrating, Hinch says it could benefit herself and a squad that is vastly different to the one that won gold in Rio.

"When it was cancelled it was a bit of a relief," Hinch, who disclosed recently that she was diagnosed with depression, said.

"It may be helped me as I had more time to bed in with the group. We had a new coach, a lot of new faces, so it gave me a bit more time to get more comfortable around the group.

"That took me longer than I anticipated. In that sense, I've been grateful to have the extra year, another year to settle."

Hinch knows Britain will have a target on their backs this time, even if the Dutch are favourites, and says despite Britain being ranked fifth by the FIH, they can defend their title.

She is careful, however, not to predict anything quite as dramatic as what happened in Rio.

"The fashion we did it last time would be hard to top," Hinch said. "That game was ridiculous really. It had everything and the showcase for hockey was amazing. But maybe if we can defend it the feeling would be even better.

"People have written us off but we still have the target on our backs. We are still the team that people will pay attention to. So I think it would be even sweeter to do it again."

Her knowledge of having "been there and done it" will hold the British team in good stead, with Hinch saying that whatever happens in the build-up often goes out the window in the pressure cooker of an Olympic tournament.

"We were seventh in the world before Rio and were bottom of the tournament just before," Hinch, capped 151 times, said.

"But within our bubble, we knew where we were at and where we could be and we brought it together at the right time."

With Hinch between the posts, Britain will have a chance -- and pity, anyone, trying to score a penalty against her.

Unlike soccer, since 2011 hockey's shoot-outs involve a one-on-one in which the outfield player has eight seconds to dribble from the 23-metre line and beat the keeper.

It's a scenario Hinch loves, just ask the Dutch.

"It's a little bit more of a showcase of skill," Hinch, who is launching her own training app for budding keepers, said.

"What I love about it is that it is very much a test of keeping in all aspects, being active, being brave, the mental aspect. I think it's a great way to decide on a game.

"In the old days (of the penalty stroke) you expected the player to score and if they did it's not really on the keeper. Now I back myself to save them."

Goalkeeper Maddie Hinch thought she had played her last match for Britain when she stepped away from the international hockey arena in the wake of her gold-medal-winning exploits at the Rio Olympics in 2016.

Goalkeeper Maddie Hinch thought she had played her last match for Britain when she stepped away from the international hockey arena in the wake of her gold-medal-winning exploits at the Rio Olympics in 2016. Nine weeks before the scheduled start of the delayed Tokyo Games, however, the 32-year-old is back in her familiar role as her country's last line of defence. Hinch became a household name in 2016, saving all four penalties in an Olympic final shoot-out against the Netherlands. Two years later she relinquished the jersey and moved to the Netherlands to play club hockey, later saying she had struggled with the self-imposed pressure to perform like a "superhero" every time she put the pads on. After time out of the spotlight, in 2019 Hinch returned and this weekend keeps the goal for Britain against the U.S. in the FIH Pro League in London as the Games build-up gathers pace. "Taking a break I knew would put pressure on the shirt, having worked pretty hard to try and get it in the first place," Hinch told Reuters in an interview. "Once you've got it and you're playing well you have to really play badly to lose it. When I let it go the other two were doing well and I knew if I came back I would have to earn it. It took a while to settle back in and prove to myself that I could still play at that level and still belong." Hinch said the past year has been an emotional rollercoaster with matches cancelled and little time for team bonding. To keep herself in shape she has spent hours working out in her garage with gym equipment provided by energy drink company Red Bull, whose stable of international athletes she is part of. But while the 12-month postponement of the Games because of COVID-19 was frustrating, Hinch says it could benefit herself and a squad that is vastly different to the one that won gold in Rio. "When it was cancelled it was a bit of a relief," Hinch, who disclosed recently that she was diagnosed with depression, said. "It may be helped me as I had more time to bed in with the group. We had a new coach, a lot of new faces, so it gave me a bit more time to get more comfortable around the group. "That took me longer than I anticipated. In that sense, I've been grateful to have the extra year, another year to settle." Hinch knows Britain will have a target on their backs this time, even if the Dutch are favourites, and says despite Britain being ranked fifth by the FIH, they can defend their title. She is careful, however, not to predict anything quite as dramatic as what happened in Rio. "The fashion we did it last time would be hard to top," Hinch said. "That game was ridiculous really. It had everything and the showcase for hockey was amazing. But maybe if we can defend it the feeling would be even better. "People have written us off but we still have the target on our backs. We are still the team that people will pay attention to. So I think it would be even sweeter to do it again." Her knowledge of having "been there and done it" will hold the British team in good stead, with Hinch saying that whatever happens in the build-up often goes out the window in the pressure cooker of an Olympic tournament. "We were seventh in the world before Rio and were bottom of the tournament just before," Hinch, capped 151 times, said. "But within our bubble, we knew where we were at and where we could be and we brought it together at the right time." With Hinch between the posts, Britain will have a chance -- and pity, anyone, trying to score a penalty against her. Unlike soccer, since 2011 hockey's shoot-outs involve a one-on-one in which the outfield player has eight seconds to dribble from the 23-metre line and beat the keeper. It's a scenario Hinch loves, just ask the Dutch. "It's a little bit more of a showcase of skill," Hinch, who is launching her own training app for budding keepers, said. "What I love about it is that it is very much a test of keeping in all aspects, being active, being brave, the mental aspect. I think it's a great way to decide on a game. "In the old days (of the penalty stroke) you expected the player to score and if they did it's not really on the keeper. Now I back myself to save them."

Olympics: Maddie Hinch ready to be Britain's last line of defense again

Indian Men's Hockey Team's defender Surender Kumar, who has played 135 matches for the national side, feels fitness played a pivotal role in helping the team put up a solid show on their recent successful tours to Europe and Argentina.

"I feel fitness played a pivotal role in helping the team put up a solid performance on both the tours. I don't think we would have had a successful outing in Argentina and Europe if our fitness level were not up to the mark," said Surender.

He further added, "When your fitness level is up to the mark, you automatically perform well on the field. You know, when you are away from the competition for such a long time, it becomes difficult to maintain such fitness levels. Hence, to keep our fitness level on track, we also gave importance to our physical strength at the camp, apart from technical aspects of the game."

The World No. 5 side, who pitted against the Olympic Champions Argentina registered 2-2 (3-2 SO), 3-0 wins in their Hockey Pro League tie and secured 4-3, 4-4, 0-1 and 4-2 results in their practice matches. Speaking about the team's performance against the hosts Argentina, the 27-year-old defender said that the team focused on keeping things simple and played to their strengths without doing anything extra.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ck-vineeth-steps-up-once-again-to-help-during-indias-hour-of-need-383298" hreflang="en">CK Vineeth steps up once again to help during India's hour of need</a>

"It's not that easy to compete in a high-level competition after almost a year, especially against a strong team like Argentina, who had more international exposure than us. We focused on keeping things simple and played to our strengths, without doing anything extra, and I feel it worked out for us on the tour. And, would like to continue doing it in the Olympics as well. So, yeah, it was a good tour considering the fact that we defeated the Olympic Champions on their home soil as well as we got a great exposure before heading into the Olympics," said Surender.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Karnal-born player, who is with the Core Group at SAI, Bengaluru further highlighted that the team is working on improving their fitness level. "We are working on improving our fitness level as it has been one of the key elements for us. As I said, if you want to put up a good show on the field, you need to have that fitness level," said the experienced defender.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-team-to-win-league-next-year-rio-ferdinand-believes-this-team-will-win-the-premier-league-next-year-383276" hreflang="en">'My team to win league next year': Rio Ferdinand believes this team will win the Premier League next year</a>

With the marquee event Olympic Games just around the corner, Surender also emphasised that the team is taking one day at a time, and this approach has helped the team excel on their recent tours.

"We are taking it one day at a time, and this approach has also helped us excel on our recent tours. I think it will help us in the Olympics as well. For now, we are just focusing on our training and working hard to improve our levels each and every day," he concluded.

Indian Men's Hockey Team's defender Surender Kumar, who has played 135 matches for the national side, feels fitness played a pivotal role in helping the team put up a solid show on their recent successful tours to Europe and Argentina.

Indian Men's Hockey Team's defender Surender Kumar, who has played 135 matches for the national side, feels fitness played a pivotal role in helping the team put up a solid show on their recent successful tours to Europe and Argentina. "I feel fitness played a pivotal role in helping the team put up a solid performance on both the tours. I don't think we would have had a successful outing in Argentina and Europe if our fitness level were not up to the mark," said Surender. He further added, "When your fitness level is up to the mark, you automatically perform well on the field. You know, when you are away from the competition for such a long time, it becomes difficult to maintain such fitness levels. Hence, to keep our fitness level on track, we also gave importance to our physical strength at the camp, apart from technical aspects of the game." The World No. 5 side, who pitted against the Olympic Champions Argentina registered 2-2 (3-2 SO), 3-0 wins in their Hockey Pro League tie and secured 4-3, 4-4, 0-1 and 4-2 results in their practice matches. Speaking about the team's performance against the hosts Argentina, the 27-year-old defender said that the team focused on keeping things simple and played to their strengths without doing anything extra. ALSO READ: CK Vineeth steps up once again to help during India's hour of need "It's not that easy to compete in a high-level competition after almost a year, especially against a strong team like Argentina, who had more international exposure than us. We focused on keeping things simple and played to our strengths, without doing anything extra, and I feel it worked out for us on the tour. And, would like to continue doing it in the Olympics as well. So, yeah, it was a good tour considering the fact that we defeated the Olympic Champions on their home soil as well as we got a great exposure before heading into the Olympics," said Surender. The Karnal-born player, who is with the Core Group at SAI, Bengaluru further highlighted that the team is working on improving their fitness level. "We are working on improving our fitness level as it has been one of the key elements for us. As I said, if you want to put up a good show on the field, you need to have that fitness level," said the experienced defender. ALSO READ: 'My team to win league next year': Rio Ferdinand believes this team will win the Premier League next year With the marquee event Olympic Games just around the corner, Surender also emphasised that the team is taking one day at a time, and this approach has helped the team excel on their recent tours. "We are taking it one day at a time, and this approach has also helped us excel on our recent tours. I think it will help us in the Olympics as well. For now, we are just focusing on our training and working hard to improve our levels each and every day," he concluded.

'Fitness one of the key elements for team,' says Indian Men's Hockey defender Surender Kumar

The Indian Men's Hockey Team&nbsp;Forward Mandeep Singh, who scored a goal in India's 3-0 victory over Argentina in their second FIH Hockey Pro League match earlier in May, expressed that the side's brilliant performance against the Olympic Gold Medallists is a huge confidence booster for the national side. The Indian team won the first FIH Hockey Pro League match against Argentina via penalty shootout (3-2) and further defeated Argentina in two out of their four practice matches on the tour, which was held from April 6 to April 14.

"Putting up a great performance against the Olympic Gold Medallists is certainly a huge confidence booster for us. We played very well against Germany and Great Britain as well and it was great to back that up with a brilliant tour of Argentina. We have attained a great rhythm in our last two tours, and we are currently working on a few aspects that we could have done better in our recent matches," said the Forward.

Mandeep added that the team's coordination on the field during their tours of Argentina and Europe was a huge plus point for the team.

"When a team plays matches after a long break, a team could lose its coordination. However, it was great to see how we all found our coordination quickly and gelled very well as a team when we played each of our matches this year. The team is shaping up really well at the moment. We just have to keep focussing on the basics and keeping moving forward with each practice session," said the 26-year-old.

The Forward further added that the Indian team's sole focus at the moment is the Olympics, and that the side is on track to create history in the quadrennial event.

"Our sole focus is the Olympics and I think we are totally on track to put up a great performance in the quadrennial event later this year. We are very fortunate to be training for the Olympics in a safe and secure environment at the SAI campus in Bengaluru during a very difficult time for our country. We are thankful for the tremendous efforts put in by Hockey India and SAI in the last one year. We couldn't have continued to practice for the Olympics without their invaluable support," signed off Mandeep.

The Indian Men's Hockey Team Forward Mandeep Singh, who scored a goal in India's 3-0 victory over Argentina in their second FIH Hockey Pro League match earlier in May, expressed that the side's brilliant performance against the Olympic Gold Medallists is a huge confidence booster for the national side.

The Indian Men's Hockey Team Forward Mandeep Singh, who scored a goal in India's 3-0 victory over Argentina in their second FIH Hockey Pro League match earlier in May, expressed that the side's brilliant performance against the Olympic Gold Medallists is a huge confidence booster for the national side. The Indian team won the first FIH Hockey Pro League match against Argentina via penalty shootout (3-2) and further defeated Argentina in two out of their four practice matches on the tour, which was held from April 6 to April 14. "Putting up a great performance against the Olympic Gold Medallists is certainly a huge confidence booster for us. We played very well against Germany and Great Britain as well and it was great to back that up with a brilliant tour of Argentina. We have attained a great rhythm in our last two tours, and we are currently working on a few aspects that we could have done better in our recent matches," said the Forward. Mandeep added that the team's coordination on the field during their tours of Argentina and Europe was a huge plus point for the team. "When a team plays matches after a long break, a team could lose its coordination. However, it was great to see how we all found our coordination quickly and gelled very well as a team when we played each of our matches this year. The team is shaping up really well at the moment. We just have to keep focussing on the basics and keeping moving forward with each practice session," said the 26-year-old. The Forward further added that the Indian team's sole focus at the moment is the Olympics, and that the side is on track to create history in the quadrennial event. "Our sole focus is the Olympics and I think we are totally on track to put up a great performance in the quadrennial event later this year. We are very fortunate to be training for the Olympics in a safe and secure environment at the SAI campus in Bengaluru during a very difficult time for our country. We are thankful for the tremendous efforts put in by Hockey India and SAI in the last one year. We couldn't have continued to practice for the Olympics without their invaluable support," signed off Mandeep.

'India's performance against Argentina is huge confidence booster,' says hockey forward Mandeep Singh

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