Doubts over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-why-pakistans-hockey-world-cup-participation-in-doubt-176181">Pakistan's participation</a> in the Hockey World Cup have finally been cleared after the owner of a cricket franchise came on board as a sponsor to bail out the cash-strapped national federation.&nbsp;

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) secretary Shahbaz Ahmed informed that Pakistan Super League franchise, Peshawar Zalmi owner Javed Afridi has signed a major sponsorship deal with the PHF which will run till 2020.

The sponsorship deal will cover all international tours of senior and junior national teams as well as domestic hockey.&nbsp;

"It is a big relief for us. Javed Afridi, who owns the Peshawar Zalmi franchise has signed the sponsorship deal to uplift Pakistan hockey on behalf of his company, Haier Pakistan," Shahbaz said.

"Pakistan team is going to India for the World Cup," he added.

Shahbaz, however, refused to disclose the sponsorship amount.&nbsp;

The Hockey World Cup will be played in Bhubaneswar from November 28 to December 16.

The PHF had earlier warned that if the government didn't give a grant of 80 million rupees it would jeopardise Pakistan's participation in the World Cup.&nbsp;

The Imran Khan-led government had until Sunday not released any grant despite hockey being the national game of Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Now we are just waiting for the visas of our players and officials," the PHF secretary said.

The PHF had also sought a loan from the country's cricket board, but the PCB had outrightly turned down the request.&nbsp;

Shahbaz said due to the just-inked sponsorship deal, the PHF would not only be able to send the team to India but also clear the outstanding dues of the players, who have not been paid daily allowances for the recent Asian Champions Trophy and camps.

The last time Pakistan played in Bhubaneswar it qualified for the final of the Champions Trophy in December 2014.

Doubts over Pakistan's participation in the Hockey World Cup have finally been cleared after the owner of a cricket franchise came on board as a sponsor to bail out the cash-strapped national federation.

Doubts over Pakistan's participation in the Hockey World Cup have finally been cleared after the owner of a cricket franchise came on board as a sponsor to bail out the cash-strapped national federation. Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) secretary Shahbaz Ahmed informed that Pakistan Super League franchise, Peshawar Zalmi owner Javed Afridi has signed a major sponsorship deal with the PHF which will run till 2020. The sponsorship deal will cover all international tours of senior and junior national teams as well as domestic hockey. "It is a big relief for us. Javed Afridi, who owns the Peshawar Zalmi franchise has signed the sponsorship deal to uplift Pakistan hockey on behalf of his company, Haier Pakistan," Shahbaz said. "Pakistan team is going to India for the World Cup," he added. Shahbaz, however, refused to disclose the sponsorship amount. The Hockey World Cup will be played in Bhubaneswar from November 28 to December 16. The PHF had earlier warned that if the government didn't give a grant of 80 million rupees it would jeopardise Pakistan's participation in the World Cup. The Imran Khan-led government had until Sunday not released any grant despite hockey being the national game of Pakistan. "Now we are just waiting for the visas of our players and officials," the PHF secretary said. The PHF had also sought a loan from the country's cricket board, but the PCB had outrightly turned down the request. Shahbaz said due to the just-inked sponsorship deal, the PHF would not only be able to send the team to India but also clear the outstanding dues of the players, who have not been paid daily allowances for the recent Asian Champions Trophy and camps. The last time Pakistan played in Bhubaneswar it qualified for the final of the Champions Trophy in December 2014.

World Cup doubts over as Pakistan hockey finally finds sponsor

Pakistan hockey coach Hassan Sardar has sounded out a warning to his players, saying indiscipline will not be tolerated during the World Cup in India.&nbsp;

Pakistan players are gearing up to play in India for the first time after the unsavoury incident during the Champions trophy when they took off their shirts and made obscene gestures after winning their semi-final clash against India.

The FIH had suspended two players, Muhammad Tousiq and Ali Amjad, while Shafqat Rasool was let off with a warning.&nbsp;

Hockey India had ruled out Pakistani players' participation in future editions of Hockey India League (HIL) after the incident.

"Behavioural aspect is very important for me and I have told the players that there will be straight action if any incident of indiscipline happens.&nbsp;

I hope their behaviour will be exemplary this time," Sardar told PTI Bhasha in an interview from Karachi.

"I am told that players were provoked by the spectators otherwise they would not have done that. I am sure my players will not repeat it and will be remembered for their performance. In 2014 also we have had good memories on field when we beat India and Netherlands, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and&nbsp;1982 Asiad gold medallist said.

Sardar, who scored a hat-trick in Pakistan's 7-1 win in the Asian Games final in New Delhi in 1982, said that his experience of playing in India has been extraordinary.

"I have very fond memories of playing in India. We beat India in Asiad final in 1982 but the next day when we went for shopping, not a single shopkeeper took money from us. We have got so much love in India and Indian cricketers and hockey players will say the same for Pakistan. We must continue this tradition of mutual love and respect," he said.

India and Pakistan were declared joint winner in the just concluded Asian Champions Trophy in Muscat after the final was called off due to heavy rains. There were reports quoting Hassan that Pakistan was willing to play but India denied.

When asked about this, he said that his team wanted to play the final but he never blamed India.

"It's not like that. I only said that we wanted to play the final against India and I am sure Indians would have been feeling the same. No player in the world would like to see the final getting washed away like this but realistically play was not possible in such circumstances, said the former captain.

Sardar said India will be among the favourites while Pakistan are also capable of springing surprises in the World Cup.

"India is in good form and reached the final of Champions trophy. They are playing on their home ground which does make a lot of difference. They are practising in Bhubaneshwar and it will also help them, he said.

"We have a tough pool where we will be playing against Netherlands, Malaysia and Germany. We are targeting Germany who have not played international hockey for the last one year. We have beaten Malaysia and can beat Netherlands on our day, said the coach.

He also called for the revival of Indo-Pak bilateral Hockey.

"It will be good for both the countries and the game itself. It will generate interest in the game and new talents can be unearthed," he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan hockey coach Hassan Sardar has sounded out a warning to his players, saying indiscipline will not be tolerated during the World Cup in India. Pakistan players are gearing up to play in India for the first time after the unsavoury incident during the Champions trophy when they took off their shirts and made obscene gestures after winning their semi-final clash against India.

Pakistan hockey coach Hassan Sardar has sounded out a warning to his players, saying indiscipline will not be tolerated during the World Cup in India. Pakistan players are gearing up to play in India for the first time after the unsavoury incident during the Champions trophy when they took off their shirts and made obscene gestures after winning their semi-final clash against India. The FIH had suspended two players, Muhammad Tousiq and Ali Amjad, while Shafqat Rasool was let off with a warning. Hockey India had ruled out Pakistani players' participation in future editions of Hockey India League (HIL) after the incident. "Behavioural aspect is very important for me and I have told the players that there will be straight action if any incident of indiscipline happens. I hope their behaviour will be exemplary this time," Sardar told PTI Bhasha in an interview from Karachi. "I am told that players were provoked by the spectators otherwise they would not have done that. I am sure my players will not repeat it and will be remembered for their performance. In 2014 also we have had good memories on field when we beat India and Netherlands, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and 1982 Asiad gold medallist said. Sardar, who scored a hat-trick in Pakistan's 7-1 win in the Asian Games final in New Delhi in 1982, said that his experience of playing in India has been extraordinary. "I have very fond memories of playing in India. We beat India in Asiad final in 1982 but the next day when we went for shopping, not a single shopkeeper took money from us. We have got so much love in India and Indian cricketers and hockey players will say the same for Pakistan. We must continue this tradition of mutual love and respect," he said. India and Pakistan were declared joint winner in the just concluded Asian Champions Trophy in Muscat after the final was called off due to heavy rains. There were reports quoting Hassan that Pakistan was willing to play but India denied. When asked about this, he said that his team wanted to play the final but he never blamed India. "It's not like that. I only said that we wanted to play the final against India and I am sure Indians would have been feeling the same. No player in the world would like to see the final getting washed away like this but realistically play was not possible in such circumstances, said the former captain. Sardar said India will be among the favourites while Pakistan are also capable of springing surprises in the World Cup. "India is in good form and reached the final of Champions trophy. They are playing on their home ground which does make a lot of difference. They are practising in Bhubaneshwar and it will also help them, he said. "We have a tough pool where we will be playing against Netherlands, Malaysia and Germany. We are targeting Germany who have not played international hockey for the last one year. We have beaten Malaysia and can beat Netherlands on our day, said the coach. He also called for the revival of Indo-Pak bilateral Hockey. "It will be good for both the countries and the game itself. It will generate interest in the game and new talents can be unearthed," he said.

Indiscipline will not be tolerated during WC: Pakistan hockey coach

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan were on Sunday declared joint winners of the fifth Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) hockey tournament after the much-anticipated summit clash was called off due to heavy downpour here.&nbsp;

Heavy rain since evening delayed the start of the final and even though the skies relented later, but by then the damage had already been done.

The turf was completely waterlogged because of the heavy showers and after discussion with both the coaches of India and Pakistan, the tournament director decided to call off the match and declare both the teams as joint winners.&nbsp;

India, thus, remained unbeaten in the tournament having topped the round robin stages with 13 points, courtesy four wins and a draw out of their five games.&nbsp;

Pakistan ended the round robin stages on the second spot with 10 points.&nbsp;

India had earlier defeated Pakistan 3-1 in the round robin stage. 
It was both India and Pakistan's last international outing before the season-ending FIH men's World Cup to be held in Bhubaneswar from November 28 to December 16.&nbsp;

For records, India and Pakistan had won the title twice each before the current edition. India came into the tournament this year as defending champions having won the last edition in 2016 after their title triumph in the inaugural edition in 2011.&nbsp;

Pakistan won the title twice in 2012 and 2013 besides finishing runners-up in 2011 and 2016. India too have finished runners-up once in 2012.

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan were on Sunday declared joint winners of the fifth Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) hockey tournament after the much-anticipated summit clash was called off due to heavy downpour here.

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan were on Sunday declared joint winners of the fifth Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) hockey tournament after the much-anticipated summit clash was called off due to heavy downpour here. Heavy rain since evening delayed the start of the final and even though the skies relented later, but by then the damage had already been done. The turf was completely waterlogged because of the heavy showers and after discussion with both the coaches of India and Pakistan, the tournament director decided to call off the match and declare both the teams as joint winners. India, thus, remained unbeaten in the tournament having topped the round robin stages with 13 points, courtesy four wins and a draw out of their five games. Pakistan ended the round robin stages on the second spot with 10 points. India had earlier defeated Pakistan 3-1 in the round robin stage. It was both India and Pakistan's last international outing before the season-ending FIH men's World Cup to be held in Bhubaneswar from November 28 to December 16. For records, India and Pakistan had won the title twice each before the current edition. India came into the tournament this year as defending champions having won the last edition in 2016 after their title triumph in the inaugural edition in 2011. Pakistan won the title twice in 2012 and 2013 besides finishing runners-up in 2011 and 2016. India too have finished runners-up once in 2012.

Asian Champions Trophy: India, Pakistan share title as match called off due to heavy rain

The Indian men's hockey team put up a clinical performance against Japan, demolishing the Asiad gold-medallists 9-0 for its third win in as many matches at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy here.&nbsp;

As many as six Indian players made entries on the score-sheet on Sunday night in a dominating show that reaffirmed their supremacy in Asia and showed that the below-par Asian Games performance was an aberration.&nbsp;

With their third successive win, India lead the six-team event's league standings with a maximum nine points, followed by Malaysia on six points from two games.&nbsp;

Strikers Lalit Upadhyay and Mandeep Singh scored two goals each, while drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty stroke and a penalty corner to lead the goal-fest.&nbsp;

Upadhyay opened the Indian scoring in the fourth minute with a diving deflection and again got into the action in the 45th minute for his double, while Harmanpreet converted a penalty stroke in the 17th minute and then sounded the board with a low penalty corner shot in the 21st minute.&nbsp;

As Japan's defence was swept away by the Indian raids, Mandeep Singh capitalised on two openings in the last quarter -- in the 49th and 57th minute.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India defeat Japan by 9-0 margin in the only match played on day four of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2018 on 21st October 2018. Here's a look at the result of the day.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroACT2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroACT2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/hYyIfmbhhi">pic.twitter.com/hYyIfmbhhi</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1054087568889790464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Japan's goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa was injured in the eighth minute when he blocked Harmanpreet's penalty corner shot, only for the ball to rebound to Gurjant, who flicked it in. Thereafter, reserve Yusuke Takano had to bear the brunt of the Indian attack.&nbsp;

Indian coach Harendra Singh was pleased by his team's ruthless performance.&nbsp;

"The way we played was good. We played to a plan and did not allow Japan's team to play in a certain manner," said Harendra. 
The game also saw a goal each from Akashdeep Singh (36th) and Sumit (42nd).&nbsp;

On the points table, Pakistan have three points from two matches, while Japan are on three points in three games. South Korea and Oman have lost both their matches.&nbsp;

Japan coach Siegfried Aikman said India were too strong to be contained in this contest.&nbsp;

"We tried our level best, but they were very strong. We were below the level as India sparkled with their speed, agility and hard-press game," said Aikman.&nbsp;

The Indian men's hockey team put up a clinical performance against Japan, demolishing the Asiad gold-medallists 9-0 for its third win in as many matches at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy here.

The Indian men's hockey team put up a clinical performance against Japan, demolishing the Asiad gold-medallists 9-0 for its third win in as many matches at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy here. As many as six Indian players made entries on the score-sheet on Sunday night in a dominating show that reaffirmed their supremacy in Asia and showed that the below-par Asian Games performance was an aberration. With their third successive win, India lead the six-team event's league standings with a maximum nine points, followed by Malaysia on six points from two games. Strikers Lalit Upadhyay and Mandeep Singh scored two goals each, while drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty stroke and a penalty corner to lead the goal-fest. Upadhyay opened the Indian scoring in the fourth minute with a diving deflection and again got into the action in the 45th minute for his double, while Harmanpreet converted a penalty stroke in the 17th minute and then sounded the board with a low penalty corner shot in the 21st minute. As Japan's defence was swept away by the Indian raids, Mandeep Singh capitalised on two openings in the last quarter -- in the 49th and 57th minute. India defeat Japan by 9-0 margin in the only match played on day four of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2018 on 21st October 2018. Here's a look at the result of the day.#IndiaKaGame #HeroACT2018 pic.twitter.com/hYyIfmbhhi — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) October 21, 2018 × Japan's goalkeeper Takashi Yoshikawa was injured in the eighth minute when he blocked Harmanpreet's penalty corner shot, only for the ball to rebound to Gurjant, who flicked it in. Thereafter, reserve Yusuke Takano had to bear the brunt of the Indian attack. Indian coach Harendra Singh was pleased by his team's ruthless performance. "The way we played was good. We played to a plan and did not allow Japan's team to play in a certain manner," said Harendra. The game also saw a goal each from Akashdeep Singh (36th) and Sumit (42nd). On the points table, Pakistan have three points from two matches, while Japan are on three points in three games. South Korea and Oman have lost both their matches. Japan coach Siegfried Aikman said India were too strong to be contained in this contest. "We tried our level best, but they were very strong. We were below the level as India sparkled with their speed, agility and hard-press game," said Aikman.

Asian Champions Trophy: India men's hockey team defeat Japan 9-0

Indian men's hockey team defeated their arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 at the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament on Saturday.

This is India's second continuous win of the tournament as earlier team India had outclassed hosts Oman 11-0 in their opening match.

Muhammad Irfan Junior of Pakistan scored&nbsp;team's only goal in the opening minutes of the match&nbsp;to stun team India.

India, however, came back into the match in the second quarter when skipper Manpreet Singh (24th minute) netted the equalizer.

Mandeep Singh scored in the 33rd minute as India took a 2-1 lead.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
FT| A commendable effort by the Indian Men's Hockey Team saw them beat arch-rivals Pakistan by a goal margin of 3-1, in spite of trailing in the first quarter in this blockbuster clash of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2018 on 20th October.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroACT2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroACT2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/g7sq5mGmVX">pic.twitter.com/g7sq5mGmVX</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1053718566036357120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The lead was further extended 3-1 when striker Dilpreet Singh scored another field goal in the 42nd minute.&nbsp;

India took the lead in the 33rd minute through a field strike from Mandeep Singh. The Indians extended their lead to 3-1 when striker Dilpreet Singh scored another field goal in the 42nd minute.&nbsp;

India had defeated <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-indian-hockey-team-outclass-pakistan4-0-in-tournament-opener-146544">Pakistan 4-0 in the final edition of the Champions Trophy</a> earlier in the year before registering a close <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2018-india-beat-pakistan-2-1-to-win-bronze-in-mens-hockey-162911">2-1 win</a> over the arch-rivals in the Jakarta Asian Games.&nbsp;

Pakistan had defeated South Korea 3-1 in their opening match on Friday.&nbsp;

India will next face Japan tomorrow while Pakistan will play against Oman on Monday.

Indian men's hockey team defeated their arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 at the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament on Saturday. This is India's second continuous win of the tournament as earlier team India had outclassed hosts Oman 11-0 in their opening match.

Indian men's hockey team defeated their arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 at the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament on Saturday. This is India's second continuous win of the tournament as earlier team India had outclassed hosts Oman 11-0 in their opening match. Muhammad Irfan Junior of Pakistan scored team's only goal in the opening minutes of the match to stun team India. India, however, came back into the match in the second quarter when skipper Manpreet Singh (24th minute) netted the equalizer. Mandeep Singh scored in the 33rd minute as India took a 2-1 lead. FT| A commendable effort by the Indian Men's Hockey Team saw them beat arch-rivals Pakistan by a goal margin of 3-1, in spite of trailing in the first quarter in this blockbuster clash of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2018 on 20th October.#IndiaKaGame #HeroACT2018 #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/g7sq5mGmVX — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) October 20, 2018 × The lead was further extended 3-1 when striker Dilpreet Singh scored another field goal in the 42nd minute. India took the lead in the 33rd minute through a field strike from Mandeep Singh. The Indians extended their lead to 3-1 when striker Dilpreet Singh scored another field goal in the 42nd minute. India had defeated Pakistan 4-0 in the final edition of the Champions Trophy earlier in the year before registering a close 2-1 win over the arch-rivals in the Jakarta Asian Games. Pakistan had defeated South Korea 3-1 in their opening match on Friday. India will next face Japan tomorrow while Pakistan will play against Oman on Monday.

India beat Pakistan 3-1 at Asian Champions Trophy hockey

Russian President Vladimir Putin was seen playing ice hockey on Thursday in Sochi. The Russian President made an&nbsp;appearance at the seventh Russian National Amateur Ice Hockey Teams' Festival.

Putin was seen interacting with ice hockey players and later played a game with a team of retired hockey legends. He even managed to score five goals.

The Russian President, acting defence minister Sergei Shoigu and top Russian officials,&nbsp; along with a line-up of retired Russian hockey legends, played against the winner of the festival.

That honour went to Leningrad region amateur team "Flagman" who were beaten 12-7. The team also won a grant to build a new ice hockey arena along with the "Krutov" trophy.

The event was held in the Sochi's Bolshoy Ice Dome.&nbsp;The Night Hockey League was Putin's brainchild which was started in the year 2011 with an aim&nbsp;to promote ice hockey in Russia.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

The president made an appearance at the seventh Russian National Amateur Ice Hockey Teams' Festival

Russian President Vladimir Putin was seen playing ice hockey on Thursday in Sochi. The Russian President made an appearance at the seventh Russian National Amateur Ice Hockey Teams' Festival. Putin was seen interacting with ice hockey players and later played a game with a team of retired hockey legends. He even managed to score five goals. The Russian President, acting defence minister Sergei Shoigu and top Russian officials, along with a line-up of retired Russian hockey legends, played against the winner of the festival. That honour went to Leningrad region amateur team "Flagman" who were beaten 12-7. The team also won a grant to build a new ice hockey arena along with the "Krutov" trophy. The event was held in the Sochi's Bolshoy Ice Dome. The Night Hockey League was Putin's brainchild which was started in the year 2011 with an aim to promote ice hockey in Russia. (With inputs from Reuters)

Vladimir Putin plays ice hockey, scores five goals

The Indian men's hockey team scored two goals in the final three minutes to overcome England 4-3 in a thrilling match to top Pool B and enter the semi-finals of the 21st Commonwealth Games here on Wednesday.

Manpreet Singh (32nd), Rupinder Pal Singh (51st), Varun Kumar (58th) and Mandeep Singh (59th) scored for India while England got their goals from David Condon (17th minute), Liam Ansell (52nd) and Sam Ward (56th).

Following the win in their final Pool B game, India has 10 points -- three more than second-placed England.

Manpreet Singh (32nd), Rupinder Pal Singh (51st), Varun Kumar (58th) and Mandeep Singh (59th) scored for India while England got their goals from David Condon (17th minute), Liam Ansell (52nd) and Sam Ward (56th).

The Indian men's hockey team scored two goals in the final three minutes to overcome England 4-3 in a thrilling match to top Pool B and enter the semi-finals of the 21st Commonwealth Games here on Wednesday. Manpreet Singh (32nd), Rupinder Pal Singh (51st), Varun Kumar (58th) and Mandeep Singh (59th) scored for India while England got their goals from David Condon (17th minute), Liam Ansell (52nd) and Sam Ward (56th). Following the win in their final Pool B game, India has 10 points -- three more than second-placed England.

CWG 2018: India shock England 4-3, to play New Zealand in semi-finals

Police in Canada confirmed on Saturday that 14 people died when a bus carrying a junior ice hockey team collided with a semi-trailer truck in rural Saskatchewan province.

Fourteen more were injured -- including three critically -- in the accident involving the Humboldt Broncos team bus, which was heading north for a Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League playoff game against the Nipawin Hawks, the Saskatoon StarPhoenix reported.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police inspector Ted Monroe had said at a news conference late Friday that there were "fatalities among the passengers on the bus" and "a number of serious injuries".

"It is a significant accident, we had a tractor-trailer and a bus collide," Monroe told reporters, declining to go into further detail about the victims.

Police said the crash took place about 28 kilometers (18 miles) north of Tisdale, Saskatchewan as the bus was travelling on highway 35.

"This is much bigger than anyone can begin to imagine," Broncos team president Kevin Garinger told the Canadian broadcaster CBC. "We are just in utter disbelief and shock at the loss that's fallen upon us."

The Broncos team is comprised of 24 players, all from Canada, with the youngest aged 16 and the oldest 21.

"It's a horrible accident, my God," said Darren Opp, president of the Nipawin Hawks hockey team. "It's very, very bad."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his sadness at the tragic incident involving such young athletes.

"I cannot imagine what these parents are going through, and my heart goes out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy, in the Humboldt community and beyond," Trudeau wrote on Twitter.

The Saskatchewan league is a feeder system for higher levels of hockey with many graduating to play at US and Canadian colleges and major junior league level, while some go on to the National Hockey League. Former NHL players like defenseman Chris Chelios, goaltender Ron Hextall, forward Rod Brind'Amour and hall of fame goaltender Glenn Hall all played in the SJHL. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's fatal smash brought back memories of a single vehicle bus crash in December 1986, also in Saskatchewan, that killed four members of the Western Hockey League Swift Current Broncos.

A memorial was placed on the side of the highway at the site of the crash, about four kilometers east of Swift Current.

The Swift Current Broncos expressed their condolences.

"Humboldt Broncos weighing heavy in our hearts and minds tonight," the team said on Twitter.

Former NHL player Sheldon Kennedy, who survived when the Swift Current bus skidded off the highway in snowy conditions, also sent a message of support.

"Sending all my thoughts and prayers to those impacted with the @HumboltBroncos bus crash," Kennedy said.

A bus carrying a group of Canadian junior hockey players collided on Friday with a semi-trailer on a rural highway in Saskatchewan, killing 14 people, Canadian media reported citing police

Police in Canada confirmed on Saturday that 14 people died when a bus carrying a junior ice hockey team collided with a semi-trailer truck in rural Saskatchewan province. Fourteen more were injured -- including three critically -- in the accident involving the Humboldt Broncos team bus, which was heading north for a Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League playoff game against the Nipawin Hawks, the Saskatoon StarPhoenix reported. Royal Canadian Mounted Police inspector Ted Monroe had said at a news conference late Friday that there were "fatalities among the passengers on the bus" and "a number of serious injuries". "It is a significant accident, we had a tractor-trailer and a bus collide," Monroe told reporters, declining to go into further detail about the victims. Police said the crash took place about 28 kilometers (18 miles) north of Tisdale, Saskatchewan as the bus was travelling on highway 35. "This is much bigger than anyone can begin to imagine," Broncos team president Kevin Garinger told the Canadian broadcaster CBC. "We are just in utter disbelief and shock at the loss that's fallen upon us." The Broncos team is comprised of 24 players, all from Canada, with the youngest aged 16 and the oldest 21. "It's a horrible accident, my God," said Darren Opp, president of the Nipawin Hawks hockey team. "It's very, very bad." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his sadness at the tragic incident involving such young athletes. "I cannot imagine what these parents are going through, and my heart goes out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy, in the Humboldt community and beyond," Trudeau wrote on Twitter. The Saskatchewan league is a feeder system for higher levels of hockey with many graduating to play at US and Canadian colleges and major junior league level, while some go on to the National Hockey League. Former NHL players like defenseman Chris Chelios, goaltender Ron Hextall, forward Rod Brind'Amour and hall of fame goaltender Glenn Hall all played in the SJHL. Friday's fatal smash brought back memories of a single vehicle bus crash in December 1986, also in Saskatchewan, that killed four members of the Western Hockey League Swift Current Broncos. A memorial was placed on the side of the highway at the site of the crash, about four kilometers east of Swift Current. The Swift Current Broncos expressed their condolences. "Humboldt Broncos weighing heavy in our hearts and minds tonight," the team said on Twitter. Former NHL player Sheldon Kennedy, who survived when the Swift Current bus skidded off the highway in snowy conditions, also sent a message of support. "Sending all my thoughts and prayers to those impacted with the @HumboltBroncos bus crash," Kennedy said.

Fourteen killed in Canadian hockey team bus crash: Police

After losing the first game against Wales, Indian women's hockey team is back on track as they have thrashed team Malaysia by 4-1 in the second Pool A match on Friday at 21st Commonwealth Games.

Indian defender Gurjit Kaur converted two penalty corners (6th and 39th minute) to inspire the team to such a crucial victory also skipper Rani Rampal and Lalremsiami's scored the other two goals in the 56th and 59th minute respectively to solidify the win.

The Indian captain said, "It's quite a good result, in the second half we did much better. Malaysia played well in the first and second quarters and didn't give us much space."

She mentioned about the yesterday's loss to Wales and said, "Yesterday (Thursday 5 April) was quite a bad day, but in sport sometimes you lose and we now have to bounce back. Today our defensive structure was good and we played a controlled game."

Malaysian captain Siti Ruhani said that the team is guilt for giving away too many chances. While interacting with media she said, "This game was a close competitive match except for the last quarter. We gave them too many chances to score."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
FT. The Indian Eves put on a dominating show in their second match of the <a href="https://twitter.com/GC2018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GC2018</a> Commonwealth Games in Australia on 6th April, as an imposing performance showed off their ability to take full control of a game.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaHockeyKa?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaHockeyKa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvMAS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvMAS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GC2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GC2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/kHzw8gnTEl">pic.twitter.com/kHzw8gnTEl</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/982143104751779841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Here are some moments captured from the Indian Eves’ dominating win against Malaysia in the second group stage match at the <a href="https://twitter.com/GC2018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GC2018</a> XXI Commonwealth Games in Australia on 6th April. Album- <a href="https://t.co/j3W7qSLmCR">https://t.co/j3W7qSLmCR</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaHockeyKa?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaHockeyKa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GC2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GC2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/r9dANHbxci">pic.twitter.com/r9dANHbxci</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/982154343682945025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp

Indian women's hockey team is back on track as they have thrashed team Malaysia by 4-1 in the second Pool A match

After losing the first game against Wales, Indian women's hockey team is back on track as they have thrashed team Malaysia by 4-1 in the second Pool A match on Friday at 21st Commonwealth Games. Indian defender Gurjit Kaur converted two penalty corners (6th and 39th minute) to inspire the team to such a crucial victory also skipper Rani Rampal and Lalremsiami's scored the other two goals in the 56th and 59th minute respectively to solidify the win. The Indian captain said, "It's quite a good result, in the second half we did much better. Malaysia played well in the first and second quarters and didn't give us much space." She mentioned about the yesterday's loss to Wales and said, "Yesterday (Thursday 5 April) was quite a bad day, but in sport sometimes you lose and we now have to bounce back. Today our defensive structure was good and we played a controlled game." Malaysian captain Siti Ruhani said that the team is guilt for giving away too many chances. While interacting with media she said, "This game was a close competitive match except for the last quarter. We gave them too many chances to score." FT. The Indian Eves put on a dominating show in their second match of the @GC2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia on 6th April, as an imposing performance showed off their ability to take full control of a game.#IndiaKaGame #HallaHockeyKa #INDvMAS #GC2018 pic.twitter.com/kHzw8gnTEl — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 6, 2018 × Here are some moments captured from the Indian Eves’ dominating win against Malaysia in the second group stage match at the @GC2018 XXI Commonwealth Games in Australia on 6th April. Album- https://t.co/j3W7qSLmCR#IndiaKaGame #HallaHockeyKa #GC2018 pic.twitter.com/r9dANHbxci — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 6, 2018 ×

Commonwealth Games: Indian women bounce back, defeat Malaysia in 2nd hockey match

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-jodhpur-court-convicts-salman-khan-he-gets-a-5-year-jail-term-128523">Blackbuck poaching case: Salman Khan sentenced to five years in jail, bail application tomorrow</a>

A Jodhpur court sentenced Salman Khan Thursday to five years in jail for killing two blackbucks in 1998. The actor was also fined Rs 10,000.All the others charged in the case - actors Saif, Tabu, Neelam, Sonali Bendre, and Dushyant Singh, a local - were acquitted.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/rbi-keeps-repo-rate-unchanged-at-6-per-cent-stance-stays-at-neutral-128528">RBI keeps </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/rbi-keeps-repo-rate-unchanged-at-6-per-cent-stance-stays-at-neutral-128528">repo</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/rbi-keeps-repo-rate-unchanged-at-6-per-cent-stance-stays-at-neutral-128528"> rate unchanged at 6%, cuts inflation forecast</a>

The Reserve Bank of India kept its policy rates on hold for the fourth straight meeting on Thursday and retained its "neutral" stance even as inflationary pressures have eased more than expected.The RBI kept its policy repo rate unchanged at 6.00 per cent, its lowest since November 2010.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-women-hockey-team-loses-to-lower-ranked-wales-at-commonwealth-games-128554">Indian women's hockey team stunned 2-3 by Wales at Commonwealth Games</a>

The World No. 6 Indian hockey team started the campaign with disappointment at Commonwealth Games as they were stunned by 2-3 by a lower-ranked Wales in a Group A clash.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-much-money-is-at-stake-as-salman-khan-goes-to-jail-128518">How much money is at stake as Salman Khan goes to jail</a>

The superstar will have to spend a few nights in the Jodhpur jail before he can appeal for bail. A lot of money is riding on the actor and the projects he is currently working on and trade pundits state that nearly Rs 500 crores are at stake.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/facebook-data-leak-details-of-over-56-lakh-indian-users-may-have-been-shared-with-cambridge-analytica-128439">Facebook leak: Over 5.6 lakh Indian users' details may have been shared with Cambridge Analytica</a>

In a blog post, &nbsp;Facebook said that information about 562,455 subscribers in India — 0.6% of the complete count — may have been shared with the data firm that has worked with several Indian political parties for a long time. However, Facebook did not specify whether the company used that information for its clients.

Read the five big stories of the day here

Blackbuck poaching case: Salman Khan sentenced to five years in jail, bail application tomorrow A Jodhpur court sentenced Salman Khan Thursday to five years in jail for killing two blackbucks in 1998. The actor was also fined Rs 10,000.All the others charged in the case - actors Saif, Tabu, Neelam, Sonali Bendre, and Dushyant Singh, a local - were acquitted. RBI keeps repo rate unchanged at 6%, cuts inflation forecast The Reserve Bank of India kept its policy rates on hold for the fourth straight meeting on Thursday and retained its "neutral" stance even as inflationary pressures have eased more than expected.The RBI kept its policy repo rate unchanged at 6.00 per cent, its lowest since November 2010. Indian women's hockey team stunned 2-3 by Wales at Commonwealth Games The World No. 6 Indian hockey team started the campaign with disappointment at Commonwealth Games as they were stunned by 2-3 by a lower-ranked Wales in a Group A clash. How much money is at stake as Salman Khan goes to jail The superstar will have to spend a few nights in the Jodhpur jail before he can appeal for bail. A lot of money is riding on the actor and the projects he is currently working on and trade pundits state that nearly Rs 500 crores are at stake. Facebook leak: Over 5.6 lakh Indian users' details may have been shared with Cambridge Analytica In a blog post, Facebook said that information about 562,455 subscribers in India — 0.6% of the complete count — may have been shared with the data firm that has worked with several Indian political parties for a long time. However, Facebook did not specify whether the company used that information for its clients.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The World No. 6 Indian hockey team started the campaign with disappointment at Commonwealth Games as they were stunned by 2-3 by a lower-ranked Wales in a Group A clash.

For Wales, Lisa Daley (7th minute), Sian French (26th minute) and Natasha Marke-Jones (57th minute) scored and inspired the team to emerge victoriously and for India, while skipper Rani Rampal (34th minute) and Nikki Pradhan put India on the scoresheet.

"We needed to be energetic and play for attacking hockey. We pushed higher up, started attacking more and pressed," a disappointed Indian captain Rani Rampal said after the match.

Coach Harendra Singh was a lot critical of the performance and said the side needed to be better at penalty corner conversion.

"We conceded soft goals, which is concerning. We only had a 31 per cent conversion rate. We missed our chances despite having 50 per cent of our shots on goal. That's mainly down to the Welsh goalkeeper Roseanne Thomas who played superbly."

India will take on Malaysia in their second group match tomorrow.

Earlier today, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-modi-congratulates-mirabai-chanu-gururaja-for-their-achievements-at-cwg-128533">Mirabai Chanu</a>&nbsp;clinched the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-modi-congratulates-mirabai-chanu-gururaja-for-their-achievements-at-cwg-128533">first gold medal</a> for India at the ongoing the 21st Commonwealth Games.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-weightlifter-p-gururaja-opens-indias-account-wins-silver-128421">P Gururaja</a>&nbsp;openned India's medal account with a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-weightlifter-p-gururaja-opens-indias-account-wins-silver-128421">silver medal</a>.

The World No. 6 Indian hockey team started the campaign with disappointment at Commonwealth Games as they were stunned by 2-3 by Wales

The World No. 6 Indian hockey team started the campaign with disappointment at Commonwealth Games as they were stunned by 2-3 by a lower-ranked Wales in a Group A clash. For Wales, Lisa Daley (7th minute), Sian French (26th minute) and Natasha Marke-Jones (57th minute) scored and inspired the team to emerge victoriously and for India, while skipper Rani Rampal (34th minute) and Nikki Pradhan put India on the scoresheet. "We needed to be energetic and play for attacking hockey. We pushed higher up, started attacking more and pressed," a disappointed Indian captain Rani Rampal said after the match. Coach Harendra Singh was a lot critical of the performance and said the side needed to be better at penalty corner conversion. "We conceded soft goals, which is concerning. We only had a 31 per cent conversion rate. We missed our chances despite having 50 per cent of our shots on goal. That's mainly down to the Welsh goalkeeper Roseanne Thomas who played superbly." India will take on Malaysia in their second group match tomorrow. Earlier today, Mirabai Chanu clinched the first gold medal for India at the ongoing the 21st Commonwealth Games. P Gururaja openned India's medal account with a silver medal.

Indian women's hockey team stunned 2-3 by Wales at Commonwealth Games

India&#39;s hopes of a podium finish were dashed as they squandered lead on two occasions and went down 2-3 to Ireland in the Sultan Azlan Shah hockey tournament Malaysia on Friday.

Having grabbed the lead on two occasions (1-0 in the 10th minute and 2-1 in the 26th minute), the Indian men&#39;s team fumbled in the end in their last round-robin match.

Ramandeep Singh (10&#39;) and Amit Rohidas (26&#39;) scored for India while Shane O&#39;Donoghue (24&#39;), Sean Murray (36&#39;) and Lee Cole (42&#39;) struck for Ireland.

After rekindling their hopes of making the final with a convincing 5-1 win against Malaysia in their previous match, India looked for another win on the trot and got off to a start that reflected their intent.

Playing structured and disciplined hockey, India won a penalty corner in the 10th minute. Varun Kumar was at the first battery but it was Ramandeep who came up with a great finish to direct the flick into the net with a tap after he had injected the ball perfectly for the drag-flicker.

Soon after India won another PC when Sumit Kumar found an Irish defender&#39;s foot while forcing an assist from the baseline. But this time Varun Kumar&#39;s flick was far wide.

With a 1-0 lead, India had to contain Ireland and ensure they stayed ahead.

India denied Ireland their first PC of the match with a decision for video referral that was ruled in India&#39;s favour. But they conceded an equaliser soon after through Shane O&#39;Donoghue.

The 24th minute field goal was a result of good team work between Kirk Shimmins, Sean Murray and O&#39;Donoghue. In the 26th minute though, Amit Rohidas helped India reclaim the lead with a splendid PC, finding the top net with a fiercely-struck dragflick.

A foot foul by Dipsan Tirkey saw India concede a PC only 15 seconds prior to the half-time hooter but Suraj Karkera was on top of his job to save the PC.

India seemed to drop their game slightly in the third quarter with Ireland scoring two back-to-back goals in the 36th and 42nd minute through Sean Murray and Lee Cole respectively.

The Irish dominated ball possession while their goalkeeper Jamie Carr came up with some brilliant saves to keep India under pressure. Though India had more circle entries, they could not make much of it thanks to an alert Carr at the goalpost.

The Indian forwards were desperate to make potential forays into the striking circle. While the team&#39;s defence contained the Irish from taking further lead, an infringement by Ireland helped India win a PC. But dragflicker Amit Rohidas couldn&#39;t make it count.

With time ticking away, India pulled out their goalkeeper to add an extra man to their attack. Simranjeet Singh was behind in win another PC for India in the 56th minute. But Varun Kumar&#39;s drag was deflected by Irish rushers.

Counting down to the final hooter, errors proved dear for the Indian team while Ireland successfully held on to their lead to win.

India will next play in the 5th/6th place match on Saturday.

Having grabbed the lead on two occasions (1-0 in the 10th minute and 2-1 in the 26th minute), the Indian men's team fumbled in the end in their last round-robin match

India's hopes of a podium finish were dashed as they squandered lead on two occasions and went down 2-3 to Ireland in the Sultan Azlan Shah hockey tournament Malaysia on Friday. Having grabbed the lead on two occasions (1-0 in the 10th minute and 2-1 in the 26th minute), the Indian men's team fumbled in the end in their last round-robin match. Ramandeep Singh (10') and Amit Rohidas (26') scored for India while Shane O'Donoghue (24'), Sean Murray (36') and Lee Cole (42') struck for Ireland. After rekindling their hopes of making the final with a convincing 5-1 win against Malaysia in their previous match, India looked for another win on the trot and got off to a start that reflected their intent. Playing structured and disciplined hockey, India won a penalty corner in the 10th minute. Varun Kumar was at the first battery but it was Ramandeep who came up with a great finish to direct the flick into the net with a tap after he had injected the ball perfectly for the drag-flicker. Soon after India won another PC when Sumit Kumar found an Irish defender's foot while forcing an assist from the baseline. But this time Varun Kumar's flick was far wide. With a 1-0 lead, India had to contain Ireland and ensure they stayed ahead. India denied Ireland their first PC of the match with a decision for video referral that was ruled in India's favour. But they conceded an equaliser soon after through Shane O'Donoghue. The 24th minute field goal was a result of good team work between Kirk Shimmins, Sean Murray and O'Donoghue. In the 26th minute though, Amit Rohidas helped India reclaim the lead with a splendid PC, finding the top net with a fiercely-struck dragflick. A foot foul by Dipsan Tirkey saw India concede a PC only 15 seconds prior to the half-time hooter but Suraj Karkera was on top of his job to save the PC. India seemed to drop their game slightly in the third quarter with Ireland scoring two back-to-back goals in the 36th and 42nd minute through Sean Murray and Lee Cole respectively. The Irish dominated ball possession while their goalkeeper Jamie Carr came up with some brilliant saves to keep India under pressure. Though India had more circle entries, they could not make much of it thanks to an alert Carr at the goalpost. The Indian forwards were desperate to make potential forays into the striking circle. While the team's defence contained the Irish from taking further lead, an infringement by Ireland helped India win a PC. But dragflicker Amit Rohidas couldn't make it count. With time ticking away, India pulled out their goalkeeper to add an extra man to their attack. Simranjeet Singh was behind in win another PC for India in the 56th minute. But Varun Kumar's drag was deflected by Irish rushers. Counting down to the final hooter, errors proved dear for the Indian team while Ireland successfully held on to their lead to win. India will next play in the 5th/6th place match on Saturday.

Ireland stun India with 3-2 win in Azlan Shah hockey cup

India crushed hosts Malaysia 5-1 in their fourth match of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2018 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

A different-looking India, from the listless one who lost 2-4 to Australia, played the hosts on Wednesday as they scored three goals in nine minutes in the final quarter to dent Malaysia&#39;s chances to finish in the top two. 
 
India, who have rested many senior players, had lost their opener to Argentina 2-3 before drawing 1-1 with England.

Shilanand Lakra opened the scoring for India in the 10th minute before Malaysia&rsquo;s Faizal Saari equalised in the 33rd minute.&nbsp;

Gurjant Singh then scored twice and was supported by Sumit Kumar and Ramandeep Singh as India registered their first win of the tournament.

India will now face Ireland in their final match of the round robin stage. India can still make it to the final if other results go their way. They are even in contention for the bronze medal match.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India&rsquo;s fourth match in the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup ends in a 5-1 victory against hosts Malaysia as an overall team performance gives India all 3 points at stake. Here are the moments captured from this encounter on 7th March 2018. Album- <a href="https://t.co/F6g8FRYP4q">https://t.co/F6g8FRYP4q</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/F2ujwgzGHN">pic.twitter.com/F2ujwgzGHN</a>
&mdash; Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/971413461019144192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&nbsp;

India will now face Ireland in their final match of the round robin stage.

India crushed hosts Malaysia 5-1 in their fourth match of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2018 on Wednesday. A different-looking India, from the listless one who lost 2-4 to Australia, played the hosts on Wednesday as they scored three goals in nine minutes in the final quarter to dent Malaysia's chances to finish in the top two. India, who have rested many senior players, had lost their opener to Argentina 2-3 before drawing 1-1 with England. Shilanand Lakra opened the scoring for India in the 10th minute before Malaysia’s Faizal Saari equalised in the 33rd minute. Gurjant Singh then scored twice and was supported by Sumit Kumar and Ramandeep Singh as India registered their first win of the tournament. India will now face Ireland in their final match of the round robin stage. India can still make it to the final if other results go their way. They are even in contention for the bronze medal match. India’s fourth match in the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup ends in a 5-1 victory against hosts Malaysia as an overall team performance gives India all 3 points at stake. Here are the moments captured from this encounter on 7th March 2018. Album- https://t.co/F6g8FRYP4q#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/F2ujwgzGHN — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) March 7, 2018 ×

Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey: India beat Malaysia 5-1

India went down 2-3 to Olympic champions Argentina in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey here today.

Star drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat (13th, 23rd, 33rd minute) scored a hat-trick for Argentina while Amit Rohidas (24th, 32nd) converted two penalty corners for India.

The play was stopped in the fourth quarter due to heavy rain. At resumption, India was reduced to 10 men though a last-gasp effort from Talwinder Singh almost found the equaliser for India.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsARG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsARG</a> Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Live Updates:<a href="https://t.co/BqjFjEJi90">https://t.co/BqjFjEJi90</a> 
 
First half stats:- <a href="https://t.co/v6UfrPBozA">pic.twitter.com/v6UfrPBozA</a>
&mdash; The Field (@thefield_in) <a href="https://twitter.com/thefield_in/status/969859759573647360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

India next plays England tomorrow. The other teams taking part in the tournament are Australia, Ireland and Malaysia.

India is fielding a young team here in the absence of key players like Akashdeep Singh, SV Sunil, Mandeep Singh, Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh.

Drag-flick specialists Rupinder Pal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh too have been rested.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
FT. Argentina take the spoils in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on 3rd March, but India&#39;s encouraging performance showed signs of grit as they fought back from two goals down and kept the pressure on till the end.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvARG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvARG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SultanAzlanShahCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SultanAzlanShahCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/6IRt3NEiDW">pic.twitter.com/6IRt3NEiDW</a>
&mdash; Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/969880941874135042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&nbsp;

India went down 2-3 to Olympic champions Argentina in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup

India went down 2-3 to Olympic champions Argentina in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey here today. Star drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat (13th, 23rd, 33rd minute) scored a hat-trick for Argentina while Amit Rohidas (24th, 32nd) converted two penalty corners for India. The play was stopped in the fourth quarter due to heavy rain. At resumption, India was reduced to 10 men though a last-gasp effort from Talwinder Singh almost found the equaliser for India. #INDvsARG Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Live Updates:https://t.co/BqjFjEJi90 First half stats:- pic.twitter.com/v6UfrPBozA — The Field (@thefield_in) March 3, 2018 × India next plays England tomorrow. The other teams taking part in the tournament are Australia, Ireland and Malaysia. India is fielding a young team here in the absence of key players like Akashdeep Singh, SV Sunil, Mandeep Singh, Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. Drag-flick specialists Rupinder Pal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh too have been rested. FT. Argentina take the spoils in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on 3rd March, but India's encouraging performance showed signs of grit as they fought back from two goals down and kept the pressure on till the end.#IndiaKaGame #INDvARG #SultanAzlanShahCup pic.twitter.com/6IRt3NEiDW — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) March 3, 2018 ×

Hockey: India lose to Argentina in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup opener

Hockey&#39;s governing body indicated Thursday that Pakistan will take part in the men&#39;s World Cup this year in India despite acute tensions between the two countries.

Pakistan has qualified for the World Cup to be held in the eastern Indian city of Bhubaneswar between November 18 and December 16. But fears have been raised that Pakistan could skip the 16-team event as sporting ties between the neighbours are frozen.

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) told AFP however that no participating nation has indicated problems that could lead to a withdrawal, or India refusing to let any nation attend.

&quot;We are looking forward to welcoming all 16 qualified teams. We have not received concerns from any of the participating teams nor the host about this matter,&quot; an FIH official told AFP in an email statement.

&quot;FIH strongly believes that hockey is an inclusive sport, aimed at celebrating diversity and promoting friendship and respect.&quot;

India&#39;s blind cricket team did not go to Pakistan in January for the 50-over World Cup, forcing their matches to be switched to the United Arab Emirates.

India and Pakistan&#39;s senior cricket teams have not played a bilateral series since 2013 because of the tense political climate. India accuses its neighbour of supporting militant activities, particularly in the disputed Kashmir region.

Pakistan&#39;s kabaddi, squash and wrestling teams also did not travel to India for marquee tournaments last year.

Pakistan, who did not qualify for the 2014 World Cup, is the most successful team in the sport&#39;s showpiece event with title wins in 1971, 1978, 1982 and 1994.

Pakistan has qualified for the World Cup to be held in India but might there were speculations that they might skip it due to political turmoil

Hockey's governing body indicated Thursday that Pakistan will take part in the men's World Cup this year in India despite acute tensions between the two countries. Pakistan has qualified for the World Cup to be held in the eastern Indian city of Bhubaneswar between November 18 and December 16. But fears have been raised that Pakistan could skip the 16-team event as sporting ties between the neighbours are frozen. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) told AFP however that no participating nation has indicated problems that could lead to a withdrawal, or India refusing to let any nation attend. "We are looking forward to welcoming all 16 qualified teams. We have not received concerns from any of the participating teams nor the host about this matter," an FIH official told AFP in an email statement. "FIH strongly believes that hockey is an inclusive sport, aimed at celebrating diversity and promoting friendship and respect." India's blind cricket team did not go to Pakistan in January for the 50-over World Cup, forcing their matches to be switched to the United Arab Emirates. India and Pakistan's senior cricket teams have not played a bilateral series since 2013 because of the tense political climate. India accuses its neighbour of supporting militant activities, particularly in the disputed Kashmir region. Pakistan's kabaddi, squash and wrestling teams also did not travel to India for marquee tournaments last year. Pakistan, who did not qualify for the 2014 World Cup, is the most successful team in the sport's showpiece event with title wins in 1971, 1978, 1982 and 1994.

Pakistan to play Hockey World Cup in rival India confirms FIH

North Korea&#39;s band of all-female supporters was unable to inspire the historic joint Korean women&#39;s ice hockey team as they were dumped out of the Pyeongchang Olympics with an 8-0 defeat to Sweden on Monday.

The unified team for the Winter Games in South Korea was the product of a landmark deal between the South and North Korea -- the neighbours still technically at war -- after a year of high tensions over Pyongyang&#39;s nuclear and missile tests.

The home crowd -- seated among them the North Korean cheerleaders -- roared their players as they skated onto the ice in their blue-and-red jerseys, &quot;KOREA&quot; emblazoned over a pale blue silhouette of the peninsula.

The joint team is deeply symbolic, but as a hockey side they were at the Games with little hope of making a serious impression in terms of the competition.

And so it proved as they were hammered 8-0 for the second time in a row, this time to the Swedes, ranked five in the world.

Sweden were 3-0 up in just 10 minutes and the heavy defeat means Korea play Japan on Wednesday in their final match in a deadrubber.

The unified hockey team was hastily assembled only two weeks before the Olympics began -- and it showed in the one-sided losses to Switzerland and now Sweden.&nbsp;

&quot;Adding new players obviously isn&#39;t easy but I think going into this tournament we knew it was going to be tough,&quot; said the joint team&#39;s Canadian coach Sarah Murray.

But even as the home team were being pounded, the 200-strong North Korean cheerleaders in red, blue and white tracksuits chanted, &quot;Cheer up&quot;, clapping and waving mini-unification flags in unison and setting off a Mexican wave.

The unity was interrupted when a four-member South Korean cheering group, in tight white T-shirts and pink shorts, skipped and hopped to Avril Lavigne&#39;s &quot;Girlfriend&quot;.

The North Koreans responded with songs of their own -- mostly old folk numbers, including a ballad longing for one&#39;s home town -- showing a deep cultural divide between the two halves of the divided peninsula.

The Games have triggered a rare moment of reconciliation between the two Koreas.

Only a few months ago, Pyongyang&#39;s missile and nuclear tests and exchanges of threats with Washington were driving tensions sky-high.

But in a whirlwind of Olympic diplomacy, hundreds of North Koreans came South last week to attend the Pyeongchang Games.

And in extraordinary scenes the North Korean leader&#39;s sister Kim Yo Jong cheered the unified team together with the South&#39;s President Moon Jae-in in the defeat on Saturday to Switzerland.

Despite the disappointing consecutive losses local fans at the stadium were more bothered about the significance of the joint team.

&quot;I know we lack skill compared to other teams but I hope they will play with one mind,&quot; said Kim Sang-wook, 62, from Seoul.&nbsp;

Koo Bon-jae, a 20-year-old student from the South Korean capital, added: &quot;I was initially against it but I was touched after seeing them on the ice together.&quot;

Since the division of the peninsula the two Koreas have only competed as unified teams in 1991, when their women won the team gold at the world table tennis championship in Japan, and their under-19 footballers reached the world championship quarter-finals in Portugal.

The unified team for the Winter Games in South Korea was the product of a landmark deal between the South and North Korea -- the neighbours still technically at war -- after a year of high tensions over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile tests

North Korea's band of all-female supporters was unable to inspire the historic joint Korean women's ice hockey team as they were dumped out of the Pyeongchang Olympics with an 8-0 defeat to Sweden on Monday. The unified team for the Winter Games in South Korea was the product of a landmark deal between the South and North Korea -- the neighbours still technically at war -- after a year of high tensions over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile tests. The home crowd -- seated among them the North Korean cheerleaders -- roared their players as they skated onto the ice in their blue-and-red jerseys, "KOREA" emblazoned over a pale blue silhouette of the peninsula. The joint team is deeply symbolic, but as a hockey side they were at the Games with little hope of making a serious impression in terms of the competition. And so it proved as they were hammered 8-0 for the second time in a row, this time to the Swedes, ranked five in the world. Sweden were 3-0 up in just 10 minutes and the heavy defeat means Korea play Japan on Wednesday in their final match in a deadrubber. The unified hockey team was hastily assembled only two weeks before the Olympics began -- and it showed in the one-sided losses to Switzerland and now Sweden. "Adding new players obviously isn't easy but I think going into this tournament we knew it was going to be tough," said the joint team's Canadian coach Sarah Murray. But even as the home team were being pounded, the 200-strong North Korean cheerleaders in red, blue and white tracksuits chanted, "Cheer up", clapping and waving mini-unification flags in unison and setting off a Mexican wave. The unity was interrupted when a four-member South Korean cheering group, in tight white T-shirts and pink shorts, skipped and hopped to Avril Lavigne's "Girlfriend". The North Koreans responded with songs of their own -- mostly old folk numbers, including a ballad longing for one's home town -- showing a deep cultural divide between the two halves of the divided peninsula. The Games have triggered a rare moment of reconciliation between the two Koreas. Only a few months ago, Pyongyang's missile and nuclear tests and exchanges of threats with Washington were driving tensions sky-high. But in a whirlwind of Olympic diplomacy, hundreds of North Koreans came South last week to attend the Pyeongchang Games. And in extraordinary scenes the North Korean leader's sister Kim Yo Jong cheered the unified team together with the South's President Moon Jae-in in the defeat on Saturday to Switzerland. Despite the disappointing consecutive losses local fans at the stadium were more bothered about the significance of the joint team. "I know we lack skill compared to other teams but I hope they will play with one mind," said Kim Sang-wook, 62, from Seoul. Koo Bon-jae, a 20-year-old student from the South Korean capital, added: "I was initially against it but I was touched after seeing them on the ice together." Since the division of the peninsula the two Koreas have only competed as unified teams in 1991, when their women won the team gold at the world table tennis championship in Japan, and their under-19 footballers reached the world championship quarter-finals in Portugal.

Pyeongchang 2018: Olympic hopes over for unified Korean team after 8-0 drubbing

Jordan Greenway, the first African-American US Olympic ice hockey player, hopes to inspire black youth to his sport the way Tiger Woods did in golf or Serena Williams has in tennis.

&quot;I just really want kids out there to do something different, go against the colour barrier in the sports world,&quot; Greenway said. &quot;You see African-American players in other sports like basketball and football. I want kids to feel all right to go try something different.&quot;

The 20-year-old Boston University star forward is one of four collegians on the US roster and helped the Americans win the 2017 World Junior Championships, scoring three goals and setting up five more.

&quot;It&#39;s a proud feeling to win a gold medal for the USA and I want to have that feeling again on the biggest stage,&quot; Greenway said.

&quot;Winning a gold medal is a feeling you can&#39;t put into words. That&#39;s motivating me every day to work hard. I couldn&#39;t be more excited. I always had a dream to play in the Olympics. I didn&#39;t think it was going to happen.&quot;

Greenway has his chance because the National Hockey League, which had shut down for every Winter Olympics since 1998 so players could compete in the Games, decided against the move this season, opening the door for Europe-based talent, minor-leaguers and top collegians.

Not that Greenway isn&#39;t good enough for the NHL. He was a 2015 second-round NHL Draft pick by Minnesota, 50th overall, and at 6-foot-6 (1.97m) and 227 (103kg) pounds he&#39;s the largest player on the US Olympic roster.

&quot;Jordan&#39;s size and ability will be a big factor in penalty kills and power play,&quot; US coach Tony Granato said. &quot;His versatility will bring something special as a player.&quot;

Jordan accepts his racial pioneer role with pride and responsibility.

&quot;Being the first African-American, I&#39;m really honoured by that. Hopefully, I&#39;ve been a role model to other African-American kids to go out and do something different.

You don&#39;t see a lot of African-Americans playing hockey. Hopefully, I can inspire them.&quot;

Greenway has 24 goals and 57 assists in under three seasons with a perennial college power and could play a major role in the American men&#39;s quest for their first gold since 1980.

&quot;Our college guys, I think they can compete in the NHL right now,&quot; Granato said. &quot;They are going to have a major impact on how we do.&quot;

Greenway wouldn&#39;t have it any other way.

&quot;I want to make an impact any way I can,&quot; Greenway said. &quot;I&#39;ll put in all the effort I&#39;ve got.&quot;

&nbsp;

"I just really want kids out there to do something different, go against the colour barrier in the sports world," says Jordan Greenway.

Jordan Greenway, the first African-American US Olympic ice hockey player, hopes to inspire black youth to his sport the way Tiger Woods did in golf or Serena Williams has in tennis. "I just really want kids out there to do something different, go against the colour barrier in the sports world," Greenway said. "You see African-American players in other sports like basketball and football. I want kids to feel all right to go try something different." The 20-year-old Boston University star forward is one of four collegians on the US roster and helped the Americans win the 2017 World Junior Championships, scoring three goals and setting up five more. "It's a proud feeling to win a gold medal for the USA and I want to have that feeling again on the biggest stage," Greenway said. "Winning a gold medal is a feeling you can't put into words. That's motivating me every day to work hard. I couldn't be more excited. I always had a dream to play in the Olympics. I didn't think it was going to happen." Greenway has his chance because the National Hockey League, which had shut down for every Winter Olympics since 1998 so players could compete in the Games, decided against the move this season, opening the door for Europe-based talent, minor-leaguers and top collegians. Not that Greenway isn't good enough for the NHL. He was a 2015 second-round NHL Draft pick by Minnesota, 50th overall, and at 6-foot-6 (1.97m) and 227 (103kg) pounds he's the largest player on the US Olympic roster. "Jordan's size and ability will be a big factor in penalty kills and power play," US coach Tony Granato said. "His versatility will bring something special as a player." Jordan accepts his racial pioneer role with pride and responsibility. "Being the first African-American, I'm really honoured by that. Hopefully, I've been a role model to other African-American kids to go out and do something different. You don't see a lot of African-Americans playing hockey. Hopefully, I can inspire them." Greenway has 24 goals and 57 assists in under three seasons with a perennial college power and could play a major role in the American men's quest for their first gold since 1980. "Our college guys, I think they can compete in the NHL right now," Granato said. "They are going to have a major impact on how we do." Greenway wouldn't have it any other way. "I want to make an impact any way I can," Greenway said. "I'll put in all the effort I've got."

Olympics: Hockey pioneer hopes to inspire black kids

Producer Ritesh Sidhwani says, contrary to reports, the Akshay Kumar-starrer Gold is not a biopic on former hockey player Balbir Singh Sr.

It was being reported that the film is based on the life of hockey player Balbir Singh - played by Akshay - who was a part of the team that won the first Olympic medal for India as a free nation in 1948. 
 
Sidhwani clarified that his forthcoming film, co-produced by Farhan Akhtar under their production house Excel Entertainment, is a story based on true events, not a biopic. 
 
&quot;It is not a biopic. It is a completely fictional story but it is set against a real backdrop between 1933-48 India about what the country was, the sports... About hockey. It is not based on any character,&quot; Sidhwani told PTI in an interview here. 
 
&quot;We have set it in real events so people (often) confuse it with a biopic. It talks about the era in which we achieved Independence and what happened with sports, (primarily) hockey at that time. It is not about a particular character and Akshay is not even playing (hockey in the film). He plays the manager,&quot; he added.

Sidhwani said it was director of the film, Reema Kagti, who chose the National Award-winning actor for Gold. 
 
&quot;When Reema came to us with the story, it was on her wish list to go to an actor. And our job as producers is to take her to that actor, so we did that. Akshay was her choice,&quot; he said.&nbsp;It is for the first time that Excel Entertainment has teamed up with Akshay.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/gold%20poster-20171218015756.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
A poster of the film that was released by the makers. (Twitter)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&quot;He is the most professional actor. He is dedicated and focused on his work. He comes on the sets and is there till you don&#39;t finish the shoot. It is not that he will go and sit in his vanity van or have meetings or talk to people. 
&quot;He is a terrific person. It was a pleasure to work with him. I think this is the beginning of many associations,&quot; Sidhwani said. 
 
The film, also featuring Amit Sadh and Mouni Roy in key roles, is set to be released on August 15. 
 
Gold&nbsp;is the first sports film to be backed by their banner. Sidhwani said it will be followed by another sports story, based on the Rio Paralympics silver medallist, Deepa Malik. The project is already in the works.

The next most-talked about film is Zoya Akhtar-directed Gully Boy, featuring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt.

&quot;We are doing a story on a hip-hop artiste (referring to the film). It is not based on anyone&#39;s life. It is inspired by the hip-hop circuit that exists in the underground of this city.

&quot;We start shooting in January. Most of the film will be shot on real locations in Mumbai, we are not going to shoot much on the sets,&quot; the producer said.&nbsp;

It was being reported that the film is based on the life of hockey player Balbir Singh.

Producer Ritesh Sidhwani says, contrary to reports, the Akshay Kumar-starrer Gold is not a biopic on former hockey player Balbir Singh Sr. It was being reported that the film is based on the life of hockey player Balbir Singh - played by Akshay - who was a part of the team that won the first Olympic medal for India as a free nation in 1948. Sidhwani clarified that his forthcoming film, co-produced by Farhan Akhtar under their production house Excel Entertainment, is a story based on true events, not a biopic. "It is not a biopic. It is a completely fictional story but it is set against a real backdrop between 1933-48 India about what the country was, the sports... About hockey. It is not based on any character," Sidhwani told PTI in an interview here. "We have set it in real events so people (often) confuse it with a biopic. It talks about the era in which we achieved Independence and what happened with sports, (primarily) hockey at that time. It is not about a particular character and Akshay is not even playing (hockey in the film). He plays the manager," he added. Sidhwani said it was director of the film, Reema Kagti, who chose the National Award-winning actor for Gold. "When Reema came to us with the story, it was on her wish list to go to an actor. And our job as producers is to take her to that actor, so we did that. Akshay was her choice," he said. It is for the first time that Excel Entertainment has teamed up with Akshay. A poster of the film that was released by the makers. (Twitter) × "He is the most professional actor. He is dedicated and focused on his work. He comes on the sets and is there till you don't finish the shoot. It is not that he will go and sit in his vanity van or have meetings or talk to people. "He is a terrific person. It was a pleasure to work with him. I think this is the beginning of many associations," Sidhwani said. The film, also featuring Amit Sadh and Mouni Roy in key roles, is set to be released on August 15. Gold is the first sports film to be backed by their banner. Sidhwani said it will be followed by another sports story, based on the Rio Paralympics silver medallist, Deepa Malik. The project is already in the works. The next most-talked about film is Zoya Akhtar-directed Gully Boy, featuring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt. "We are doing a story on a hip-hop artiste (referring to the film). It is not based on anyone's life. It is inspired by the hip-hop circuit that exists in the underground of this city. "We start shooting in January. Most of the film will be shot on real locations in Mumbai, we are not going to shoot much on the sets," the producer said.

Akshay Kumar's 'Gold' not a biopic on any hockey player, clarifies producer Ritesh Sidhwani

Rain spoiled India&#39;s party as they struggled in heavy pitch conditions to lose 0-1 to Olympic champions Argentina and crash out of title race in the Hockey World League (HWL) Final here today.

The city crowd braved rain and windy conditions to pack the stadium and support the home team, but they had to return home disappointed as India were done in by waterlogged pitch.

Argentina utilised the only penalty corner that came their way to perfection in the first semi-final of the eight-nation tournament at the Kalinga Stadium.

Gonzalo Peillat struck from his team&#39;s only short corner in the 17th minute to take a decisive 1-0 lead that the world number one side managed to hold on despite a barrage of attacks from India in the third and fourth quarters.

Going by statistics, India had the upper hand over Argentina. The Indians had more shots on goal (5 as against Argentina&#39;s 4) and circle entries (11 against 10) than their opponents, but what eluded them is a goal that could have taken the match into a shoot-out.

The semi-final hurdle continued to haunt India in the tournament as they also crashed out in the same round of the event&#39;s last edition at Raipur in 2015, eventually finishing third.

The International Hockey Federation&#39;s (FIH) decision to continue with the match despite unfavourable pitch conditions because of continuous downpour came as a surprise for all and sundry, especially Netherlands and England, who too struggled in the seventh-eighth place classification match earlier in the day.

Both the teams struggled to cope with the conditions and the first quarter failed to produce any clear-cut chance.

The Argentines, on one occasion, came close early but India goalkeeper Akash Chikte was alert and dived full length to intercept a dangerous-looking pass.

The Argentines handled the conditions much better than the Indians, who struggled to pass the ball and could not tackle the adverse weather.

The heavy pitch following relentless downpour ensured that the Indians cannot rely on their strength -- fast counter attacks -- to unsettle the Argentines.

The Argentines on the other hand realised the need of the hour. They slowed the pace of the game and used the aerial ball more often than their opponents.

With field goals difficult to come by on a waterlogged pitch, penalty corner conversions became the need of the hour and the Los Leones duly utilised the only short corner that came their way.

Just two minutes into the second quarter, Argentina secured their first penalty corner and Gonzalo Peillat was bang on target. Once they conceded a goal, it was always going to be difficult for the Indians to turn the script with conditions totally not in their favour.

The Argentines remained calm after taking the lead and slowed down the pace of the match considerably whenever they wanted.

The Indians, though, displayed much better hockey after the change of ends as they created numerous scoring chances but once again lacked finishing touches. Utilising penalty corners was always going to be the key in deciding the outcome of the match, and India faltered in that department.

Minutes into the second half India earned back-to-back penalty corners, but Rupinderpal Singh failed to convert both and from there on it was always going to be an uphill task.

The Indians kept up the pressure and mounted a series of raids and on one such occasion Gurjant Singh came close, but his reverse shot was saved by Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi in the 51st minute.

India will now play the loser of the second semifinal between Australia and Germany in the bronze medal match on Sunday.&nbsp;

The semi-final hurdle continued to haunt India in the tournament as they also crashed out in the same round of the event's last edition at Raipur in 2015, eventually finishing third

Rain spoiled India's party as they struggled in heavy pitch conditions to lose 0-1 to Olympic champions Argentina and crash out of title race in the Hockey World League (HWL) Final here today. The city crowd braved rain and windy conditions to pack the stadium and support the home team, but they had to return home disappointed as India were done in by waterlogged pitch. Argentina utilised the only penalty corner that came their way to perfection in the first semi-final of the eight-nation tournament at the Kalinga Stadium. Gonzalo Peillat struck from his team's only short corner in the 17th minute to take a decisive 1-0 lead that the world number one side managed to hold on despite a barrage of attacks from India in the third and fourth quarters. Going by statistics, India had the upper hand over Argentina. The Indians had more shots on goal (5 as against Argentina's 4) and circle entries (11 against 10) than their opponents, but what eluded them is a goal that could have taken the match into a shoot-out. The semi-final hurdle continued to haunt India in the tournament as they also crashed out in the same round of the event's last edition at Raipur in 2015, eventually finishing third. The International Hockey Federation's (FIH) decision to continue with the match despite unfavourable pitch conditions because of continuous downpour came as a surprise for all and sundry, especially Netherlands and England, who too struggled in the seventh-eighth place classification match earlier in the day. Both the teams struggled to cope with the conditions and the first quarter failed to produce any clear-cut chance. The Argentines, on one occasion, came close early but India goalkeeper Akash Chikte was alert and dived full length to intercept a dangerous-looking pass. The Argentines handled the conditions much better than the Indians, who struggled to pass the ball and could not tackle the adverse weather. The heavy pitch following relentless downpour ensured that the Indians cannot rely on their strength -- fast counter attacks -- to unsettle the Argentines. The Argentines on the other hand realised the need of the hour. They slowed the pace of the game and used the aerial ball more often than their opponents. With field goals difficult to come by on a waterlogged pitch, penalty corner conversions became the need of the hour and the Los Leones duly utilised the only short corner that came their way. Just two minutes into the second quarter, Argentina secured their first penalty corner and Gonzalo Peillat was bang on target. Once they conceded a goal, it was always going to be difficult for the Indians to turn the script with conditions totally not in their favour. The Argentines remained calm after taking the lead and slowed down the pace of the match considerably whenever they wanted. The Indians, though, displayed much better hockey after the change of ends as they created numerous scoring chances but once again lacked finishing touches. Utilising penalty corners was always going to be the key in deciding the outcome of the match, and India faltered in that department. Minutes into the second half India earned back-to-back penalty corners, but Rupinderpal Singh failed to convert both and from there on it was always going to be an uphill task. The Indians kept up the pressure and mounted a series of raids and on one such occasion Gurjant Singh came close, but his reverse shot was saved by Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi in the 51st minute. India will now play the loser of the second semifinal between Australia and Germany in the bronze medal match on Sunday.

Argentina beat India in Hockey World League semi-final

The Indian women&rsquo;s hockey team qualified for next year&rsquo;s World Cup after defeating China 5-4 via a shootout in a nail-biting Asia Cup final on Sunday.

It was 1-1 at full-time after China found a late equaliser by Tiantian Luo, who converted a penalty corner in the 47th minute.

India had scored through Navjot Kaur in the 25th minute of the game. The triumph of the Indian women&rsquo;s team follows the Asia Cup victory of the men&rsquo;s side last month.

Skipper Rani Rampal and Goalkeeper Savita played a big role in India&#39;s win.&nbsp; in the sudden death round after the scored were tied at 1-1 during full-time and 4-4 at penalty shootout.&nbsp;

India had a historic win after almost 13 years, they had won the title in 2004 when they beat Japan by 1-0, in Delhi.&nbsp;

India has successfully secured a place in the FIH World Cup in 2018 with the victory.

South Korea secured third place with a 1-0 win over Japan earlier in the day.

India has successfully secured a place in the FIH World Cup in 2018 with the victory.

The Indian women’s hockey team qualified for next year’s World Cup after defeating China 5-4 via a shootout in a nail-biting Asia Cup final on Sunday. It was 1-1 at full-time after China found a late equaliser by Tiantian Luo, who converted a penalty corner in the 47th minute. India had scored through Navjot Kaur in the 25th minute of the game. The triumph of the Indian women’s team follows the Asia Cup victory of the men’s side last month. Skipper Rani Rampal and Goalkeeper Savita played a big role in India's win. in the sudden death round after the scored were tied at 1-1 during full-time and 4-4 at penalty shootout. India had a historic win after almost 13 years, they had won the title in 2004 when they beat Japan by 1-0, in Delhi. India has successfully secured a place in the FIH World Cup in 2018 with the victory. South Korea secured third place with a 1-0 win over Japan earlier in the day.

India beat China to win Asia Cup, qualify for Hockey World Cup

Favourites India continued their winning momentum defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 in a pool encounter of the 10th men&#39;s Asia Cup hockey tournament, here today.

After the two easy wins against Japan (5-1) and hosts Bangladesh (7-0), as expected India had a relatively tough outing against Pakistan but managed to maintain their all-win record.

India controlled the proceedings for the better part of the match, barring the final quarter when Pakistan, trailing 0-3, came hard at the Indian defence looking for goals.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>India controlled the proceedings for the better part of the match, barring the final quarter when Pakistan, trailing 0-3, came hard at the Indian defence looking for goals</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=India controlled the proceedings for the better part of the match, barring the final quarter when Pakistan, trailing 0-3, came hard at the Indian defence looking for goals" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

But at the end of the day, the Indians came out superior and continued their recent domination over Pakistan, that includes back-to-back victories in the Hockey World League Semi-Final in London earlier this year.

Chinglesnsana Singh (17th minute), Ramandeep Singh (44th) and Harmanpreet Singh (45th) scored the goals for India, while Pakistan lone strike came from the stick of Ali Shan in the 49th minute.

By virtue of this win, India finished on top of Pool A with nine points from three games while Pakistan secured the second spot with four points.

Both India and Pakistan have managed to secure their place in the round-robin Super 4 stage of the tournament.

Even though Japan defeated hosts Bangladesh 3-1 earlier in the day, the victory was not for them to enter the Super 4 stage as they lost out to Pakistan on goal difference.

Contrary to the win, Pakistan had the first real scoring chance when they earned their first penalty corner but they wasted it.

The Indians came out hard in the second quarter and took the lead in the 17th minute through Chinglesnsana, who slammed home after receiving a fine pass from Akashdeep Singh, who was operating in the wide right.

Three minutes later, Gurjant Singh&#39;s reverse hit from the right flank was just off target.

After wasting another penalty corner, Pakistan were denied by young India goalkeeper Suraj Karkera, who saved Mohammed Attiq&#39;s shot from close range as India went into the breather leading by a goal.

India replaced Karkera with Akash Chikte in the goal at the halfway mark and the young custodian came up with a superb save in the 40th minute to deny Pakistan.

India secured their first penalty corner soon but Varun Kumar&#39;s grounded flick was wide off the target.

Soon Gurjant had a great chance to consolidate India&#39;s lead but his push, after a fine one-two with Akashdeep was saved by the Pakistani goalkeeper.

After Pakistan wasted their third penalty corner, Ramandeep doubled India&#39;s lead in the 44th minute with a neat deflection off Harmanpreet Singh&#39;s fantastic cross from the middle of the pitch.

India extended their lead in the very next minute from their second penalty corner through Harmanpreet.

Pakistan, who looked more purposeful in the fourth and final quarter, reduced the margin in the 49th minute through Shan&#39;s field strike.

Chikte once again came to India&#39;s rescue soon, when he denied Pakistan with a fine save from their fourth penalty corner.

Thereafter, India pressed hard and earned as many as three penalty corners in succession but wasted all. PTI

Favourites India continued their winning momentum defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 in a pool encounter of the 10th men's Asia Cup hockey tournament, here today. After the two easy wins against Japan (5-1) and hosts Bangladesh (7-0), as expected India had a relatively tough outing against Pakistan but managed to maintain their all-win record. India controlled the proceedings for the better part of the match, barring the final quarter when Pakistan, trailing 0-3, came hard at the Indian defence looking for goals. India controlled the proceedings for the better part of the match, barring the final quarter when Pakistan, trailing 0-3, came hard at the Indian defence looking for goals × But at the end of the day, the Indians came out superior and continued their recent domination over Pakistan, that includes back-to-back victories in the Hockey World League Semi-Final in London earlier this year. Chinglesnsana Singh (17th minute), Ramandeep Singh (44th) and Harmanpreet Singh (45th) scored the goals for India, while Pakistan lone strike came from the stick of Ali Shan in the 49th minute. By virtue of this win, India finished on top of Pool A with nine points from three games while Pakistan secured the second spot with four points. Both India and Pakistan have managed to secure their place in the round-robin Super 4 stage of the tournament. Even though Japan defeated hosts Bangladesh 3-1 earlier in the day, the victory was not for them to enter the Super 4 stage as they lost out to Pakistan on goal difference. Contrary to the win, Pakistan had the first real scoring chance when they earned their first penalty corner but they wasted it. The Indians came out hard in the second quarter and took the lead in the 17th minute through Chinglesnsana, who slammed home after receiving a fine pass from Akashdeep Singh, who was operating in the wide right. Three minutes later, Gurjant Singh's reverse hit from the right flank was just off target. After wasting another penalty corner, Pakistan were denied by young India goalkeeper Suraj Karkera, who saved Mohammed Attiq's shot from close range as India went into the breather leading by a goal. India replaced Karkera with Akash Chikte in the goal at the halfway mark and the young custodian came up with a superb save in the 40th minute to deny Pakistan. India secured their first penalty corner soon but Varun Kumar's grounded flick was wide off the target. Soon Gurjant had a great chance to consolidate India's lead but his push, after a fine one-two with Akashdeep was saved by the Pakistani goalkeeper. After Pakistan wasted their third penalty corner, Ramandeep doubled India's lead in the 44th minute with a neat deflection off Harmanpreet Singh's fantastic cross from the middle of the pitch. India extended their lead in the very next minute from their second penalty corner through Harmanpreet. Pakistan, who looked more purposeful in the fourth and final quarter, reduced the margin in the 49th minute through Shan's field strike. Chikte once again came to India's rescue soon, when he denied Pakistan with a fine save from their fourth penalty corner. Thereafter, India pressed hard and earned as many as three penalty corners in succession but wasted all. PTI

Asia Cup hockey: India beat Pakistan 3-1, top their pool

Title favourites India produced an impressive performance to outclass Japan 5-1 in their opening campaign at the 10th edition of the men&#39; Asia Cup hockey tournament in Dhaka&nbsp;today.

In their first tournament under a new coach, India meant business and found the net in each quarter, twice in the third, to streamroll their less-fancied but tricky opponents.

SV Sunil (3rd minute), Lalit Upadhyay (22nd), Ramandeep Singh (33rd) and Harmanpreet Singh (35th and 48th) were on target.

Japan&#39;s lone goal came through Kenji Kitazato&#39;s stick in the 4th minute.

World No 6 India did not look rusty under their new coach, Marijne Sjoerd, who took charge of the team just last month following the sudden sacking of Roelant Oltmans.

India were quick to get off the blocks when Sunil, after a fine one-two with Akashdeep Singh, pushed the ball in an open net.

But India&#39;s joy was shortlived as Japan struck in the next minute through Kitazato&#39;s field strike.

The Indians completely dominated the proceedings and exploited every single bit of space given by the Japanese.

They utilised both the wings to perfection to set up their attacks.

India got their first of their four penalty corners in the 21st minute but Harmanpreet&#39;s flick didn&#39;t have enough power to trouble the Japanese citadel.

An inch-perfect scoop from Harmanpreet from the halfway mark found Lalit inside the D and the striker slotted home with a reverse shot after brilliantly controlling the ball.

Two minutes into the second half India extended their lead through Ramandeep, who scored a gem with a thundering shot from a tight angle after being set up by Sunil.

Next it was Harmanpreet&#39;s turn to register his name in the scoresheet and the drag-flicker did so by converting India&#39;s second penalty corner in the 40th minute.

Minutes later, Akashdeep missed a sitter. Sunil found an unmarked Akashdeep inside the circle but he hit the ball straight to the pads of the Japanese goalie despite having all the time to find his spot.

But soon Harmanpreet made the scoreline 5-1 in favour of India, scoring with a fine variation from their third penalty corner.

The Indians couldn&#39;t have asked for a better start to the tournament as they showcased near-perfect hockey, which was full of short one-two passes, quick turnovers and variations.

India earned two more penalty corners in the final minutes of the game but wasted both.

Japan too secured two scoring chances in the dying minutes in the form of penalty corners but the Indian defence held the fort.

The Indians will next play hosts Bangladesh in their next Pool A match on Friday. 
&nbsp;

India meant business and found the net in each quarter, twice in the third, to streamroll their less-fancied but tricky opponents.

Title favourites India produced an impressive performance to outclass Japan 5-1 in their opening campaign at the 10th edition of the men' Asia Cup hockey tournament in Dhaka today. In their first tournament under a new coach, India meant business and found the net in each quarter, twice in the third, to streamroll their less-fancied but tricky opponents. SV Sunil (3rd minute), Lalit Upadhyay (22nd), Ramandeep Singh (33rd) and Harmanpreet Singh (35th and 48th) were on target. Japan's lone goal came through Kenji Kitazato's stick in the 4th minute. World No 6 India did not look rusty under their new coach, Marijne Sjoerd, who took charge of the team just last month following the sudden sacking of Roelant Oltmans. India were quick to get off the blocks when Sunil, after a fine one-two with Akashdeep Singh, pushed the ball in an open net. But India's joy was shortlived as Japan struck in the next minute through Kitazato's field strike. The Indians completely dominated the proceedings and exploited every single bit of space given by the Japanese. They utilised both the wings to perfection to set up their attacks. India got their first of their four penalty corners in the 21st minute but Harmanpreet's flick didn't have enough power to trouble the Japanese citadel. An inch-perfect scoop from Harmanpreet from the halfway mark found Lalit inside the D and the striker slotted home with a reverse shot after brilliantly controlling the ball. Two minutes into the second half India extended their lead through Ramandeep, who scored a gem with a thundering shot from a tight angle after being set up by Sunil. Next it was Harmanpreet's turn to register his name in the scoresheet and the drag-flicker did so by converting India's second penalty corner in the 40th minute. Minutes later, Akashdeep missed a sitter. Sunil found an unmarked Akashdeep inside the circle but he hit the ball straight to the pads of the Japanese goalie despite having all the time to find his spot. But soon Harmanpreet made the scoreline 5-1 in favour of India, scoring with a fine variation from their third penalty corner. The Indians couldn't have asked for a better start to the tournament as they showcased near-perfect hockey, which was full of short one-two passes, quick turnovers and variations. India earned two more penalty corners in the final minutes of the game but wasted both. Japan too secured two scoring chances in the dying minutes in the form of penalty corners but the Indian defence held the fort. The Indians will next play hosts Bangladesh in their next Pool A match on Friday.

India thrash Japan in Asia Cup hockey

India has decided to pull out of Under-21 Johor Bahru hockey tournament in Malaysia which also features Pakistan.

Hockey India announced the decision not to send the Indian junior men&#39;s team for the Johor Bahru&nbsp;Cup. The tournament was set to be held&nbsp;between October 22- 29 October.&nbsp;

The move&nbsp;comes&nbsp;as&nbsp;India and Pakistan relations nosedived this week in the wake of spying charges levelled by a Pakistan military court against an Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This will be the second successive year when&nbsp;India will not be taking part in the tournament. The junior men&#39;s team had won the tournament in 2015.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, in January, Hockey India announced it&#39;s decision to not play any tournaments against Pakistan until they submit an unconditional written apology for &#39;&#39;lewd and unprofessional behaviour&quot;&nbsp;of the Pakistan team during the FIH Champions Trophy 2014.&nbsp;

On 1 December 2016, PHF had issued a statement rejecting claims by International Hockey Federation(FIH) that it had not submitted travel documents for its players by official deadline, which FIH said resulted in its exclusion from the junior World Cup. PHF alleged that Hockey India did not want the Pakistan team to participate in the coveted tournament.&nbsp;

&nbsp;(WION) &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hockey India announced the decision not to send the Indian junior men's team for the Johor Cup which also features Pakistan

India has decided to pull out of Under-21 Johor Bahru hockey tournament in Malaysia which also features Pakistan. Hockey India announced the decision not to send the Indian junior men's team for the Johor Bahru Cup. The tournament was set to be held between October 22- 29 October. The move comes as India and Pakistan relations nosedived this week in the wake of spying charges levelled by a Pakistan military court against an Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav. This will be the second successive year when India will not be taking part in the tournament. The junior men's team had won the tournament in 2015. Earlier this year, in January, Hockey India announced it's decision to not play any tournaments against Pakistan until they submit an unconditional written apology for ''lewd and unprofessional behaviour" of the Pakistan team during the FIH Champions Trophy 2014. On 1 December 2016, PHF had issued a statement rejecting claims by International Hockey Federation(FIH) that it had not submitted travel documents for its players by official deadline, which FIH said resulted in its exclusion from the junior World Cup. PHF alleged that Hockey India did not want the Pakistan team to participate in the coveted tournament. (WION)

India pulls out of Under-21 hockey tournament in Malaysia

Indian Women&#39;s Ice Hockey Team registered their first victory in an international match on Thursday after beating Philippines at the 2017 IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia in Bangkok.

The Indian team scored their first goal in the second period and carried the match with a clear 1-0 advantage.The last period of the match saw both the teams fight out for the top with both teams scoring 3 goals each. But India&rsquo;s lead of 1 goal in the second period, led the Indian women&rsquo;s team to win by 4-3.&nbsp;

<h3>Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-women-ice-hockey-team-uses-crowdfunding-technique-to-play-in-challenge-cup-of-asia-12688">Indian Women&#39;s Hockey Team&#39;s crowdfunding campaign</a></h3>

&nbsp;

Indian Women Ice Hockey&#39;s Team got their first international exposure last year, when they participated in the 2016 Challenge Cup of Asia in Chinese Taipei. The sporting event aims at supporting&nbsp;ice hockey friendly countries in Asia.&nbsp;

This year, for the team to participate, they carried a fundraising campaign. The 28 women team, had nothing to start with: funds for travelling, jersey, training equipment&nbsp;and other requirements of playing the sport. With the help of a crowdfunding campaign, some 3000 donors came together to fund the journey of the Indian team to becoming victorious. &nbsp;

Prasar Bharti came out to congratulate the winning team on Twitter:&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Unforgettable Moment ! 
Indian Women&#39;s ice hockey team registers its first ever international win beating Philippines 4-3 in Bangkok. <a href="https://t.co/R4pAVx5r1K">pic.twitter.com/R4pAVx5r1K</a>
&mdash; Prasar Bharati (@prasarbharati) <a href="https://twitter.com/prasarbharati/status/839824762582913024">March 9, 2017</a></blockquote>

Kudos, Indian Women&#39;s Hockey Team!

(WION)

Struggling for funds, the Indian team raised money using crowdfunding campaign to play the match

Indian Women's Ice Hockey Team registered their first victory in an international match on Thursday after beating Philippines at the 2017 IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia in Bangkok. The Indian team scored their first goal in the second period and carried the match with a clear 1-0 advantage.The last period of the match saw both the teams fight out for the top with both teams scoring 3 goals each. But India’s lead of 1 goal in the second period, led the Indian women’s team to win by 4-3. Read: Indian Women's Hockey Team's crowdfunding campaign Indian Women Ice Hockey's Team got their first international exposure last year, when they participated in the 2016 Challenge Cup of Asia in Chinese Taipei. The sporting event aims at supporting ice hockey friendly countries in Asia. This year, for the team to participate, they carried a fundraising campaign. The 28 women team, had nothing to start with: funds for travelling, jersey, training equipment and other requirements of playing the sport. With the help of a crowdfunding campaign, some 3000 donors came together to fund the journey of the Indian team to becoming victorious. Prasar Bharti came out to congratulate the winning team on Twitter: Unforgettable Moment ! Indian Women's ice hockey team registers its first ever international win beating Philippines 4-3 in Bangkok. pic.twitter.com/R4pAVx5r1K — Prasar Bharati (@prasarbharati) March 9, 2017 Kudos, Indian Women's Hockey Team! (WION)

Challenge Cup of Asia 2017: Indian women's ice hockey team wins first match

Britain beat defending champions the Netherlands on Friday to take home their first Olympic gold medal in women&#39;s hockey, winning 2-0 in a tense shootout following a hardfought 3-3 draw. 
 
After topping the podium in Beijing and London, the Netherlands were hot favourites going into the Rio Games. 
 
Despite winning every game to finish top of their group, however, the top-ranked Dutch team only scraped into the final after beating ninth-ranked Germany 4-3 in a shootout following a 1-1 draw. 
 
Britain also finished the group stages with a perfect record and were gunning for gold in their first Olympic final having won bronze four years ago in London. Germany beat New Zealand 2-1 to take the bronze medal. 
 
&quot;We&#39;ve done it,&quot; British midfielder Nicola White told reporters, brandishing her medal with a grin plastered across her face. &quot;We&#39;ve trained our arses off for so long, this is what we&#39;ve dreamed of and now we&#39;ve got it. 
 
&quot;We&#39;ve now gone unbeaten through an Olympic tournament, which is unreal,&quot; she added. &quot;We are just over the moon.&quot; 
 
That the near sell-out crowd at the Olympic Hockey Centre, a venue which has struggled to fill seats during the Rio Games, were in for a show was clear from the pushback. 
 
A boisterous British tackle and ensuing penalty flick gave Dutch captain Maartje Paumen an early chance to score, but her shot was batted aside by British keeper Maddie Hinch. 
 
&#39;SHAME IT&#39;S SILVER&#39; 
 
Britain&#39;s Lily Owsley claimed the first score of the night, emerging victorious from a mad scramble in front of the Dutch goal to put her side 1-0 ahead. 
 
A Dutch equaliser came courtesy of forward Kitty van Male who broke away for a one-on-one with the British keeper, skilfully drawing her aside and putting the ball into the top of the net with an audacious reverse stick sweep. 
 
The Netherlands&#39; second goal promptly followed with Paumen scoring off the last of three penalty corners in the space of four minutes. Seconds later, Britain&#39;s Crista Cullen picked up a cross in the opposition circle to level the scores at 2-2 going into the break. 
 
The goals kept coming in the second half. Both teams netted one each after a series of penalty corners, leaving the score deadlocked at 3-3 on the final whistle and forcing a shootout to decide the match. 
 
Of the 10 goals available, only two were scored. Britain&#39;s Helen Richardson-Walsh and Hollie Webb found the back of net to secure victory and their team&#39;s first Olympic gold medals. 
 
&quot;We played very well during the game. I think we played way better than them,&quot; said the Netherlands&#39; Eva de Goede. &quot;But shootouts are fifty-fifty. They won, we lost, it&#39;s tough.&quot; 
 
&quot;Shame it&#39;s silver,&quot; she added, gesturing to the medal which will join the two gold ones she already has at home. &quot;We were really going for a third gold. But it didn&#39;t work out.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

After topping the podium in Beijing and London, the Netherlands were favourites going into the Rio Games

Britain beat defending champions the Netherlands on Friday to take home their first Olympic gold medal in women's hockey, winning 2-0 in a tense shootout following a hardfought 3-3 draw. After topping the podium in Beijing and London, the Netherlands were hot favourites going into the Rio Games. Despite winning every game to finish top of their group, however, the top-ranked Dutch team only scraped into the final after beating ninth-ranked Germany 4-3 in a shootout following a 1-1 draw. Britain also finished the group stages with a perfect record and were gunning for gold in their first Olympic final having won bronze four years ago in London. Germany beat New Zealand 2-1 to take the bronze medal. "We've done it," British midfielder Nicola White told reporters, brandishing her medal with a grin plastered across her face. "We've trained our arses off for so long, this is what we've dreamed of and now we've got it. "We've now gone unbeaten through an Olympic tournament, which is unreal," she added. "We are just over the moon." That the near sell-out crowd at the Olympic Hockey Centre, a venue which has struggled to fill seats during the Rio Games, were in for a show was clear from the pushback. A boisterous British tackle and ensuing penalty flick gave Dutch captain Maartje Paumen an early chance to score, but her shot was batted aside by British keeper Maddie Hinch. 'SHAME IT'S SILVER' Britain's Lily Owsley claimed the first score of the night, emerging victorious from a mad scramble in front of the Dutch goal to put her side 1-0 ahead. A Dutch equaliser came courtesy of forward Kitty van Male who broke away for a one-on-one with the British keeper, skilfully drawing her aside and putting the ball into the top of the net with an audacious reverse stick sweep. The Netherlands' second goal promptly followed with Paumen scoring off the last of three penalty corners in the space of four minutes. Seconds later, Britain's Crista Cullen picked up a cross in the opposition circle to level the scores at 2-2 going into the break. The goals kept coming in the second half. Both teams netted one each after a series of penalty corners, leaving the score deadlocked at 3-3 on the final whistle and forcing a shootout to decide the match. Of the 10 goals available, only two were scored. Britain's Helen Richardson-Walsh and Hollie Webb found the back of net to secure victory and their team's first Olympic gold medals. "We played very well during the game. I think we played way better than them," said the Netherlands' Eva de Goede. "But shootouts are fifty-fifty. They won, we lost, it's tough." "Shame it's silver," she added, gesturing to the medal which will join the two gold ones she already has at home. "We were really going for a third gold. But it didn't work out." (Reuters)

Rio Olympics 2016: Britain wins first gold in women's hockey

India&#39;s hockey coach Roelant Oltmans said today that skipper Sardar Singh had been replaced as captain for the Olympics as he backed the sport&#39;s one-time giants to continue their recent revival in Rio. 
 
After unveiling the 16-strong men and women&#39;s squads which will travel to Brazil, Oltmans said that goalkeeper Sreejesh Ravindran would lead the men&#39;s team under a new &quot;rotational captaincy&quot; programme. 
 
Singh, who has been captain of the team for the last for years, was picked in the squad and Oltmans insisted he remained a key player. 
But the move comes after he was accused in February of sexually harassing a woman who claims to have been his former girlfriend, accusations that Singh has strenuously denied. 
 
&quot;I have been here for a three and a half years now and what I observed is a fairly hierarchic structure and when there is only one captain for long then the players shy away from responsibility,&quot; said Oltmans. 
 
&quot;In a team, during a game, I need players who take responsibility. Changing the captaincy on the pitch gives far more responsibility. 
&quot;Sardar is an important player but I am sure this (rotational captaincy) will help the team and it will help him as well,&quot; he added at a press conference in New Delhi. 
 
India once dominated the men&#39;s game at the Olympics and has won a total of eight golds. However the last of these was in Moscow back in 1980 and they finished last at the London games four years ago. 
 
Although not one of the favourites at next month&#39;s Olympics in Brazil, there have been encouraging signs for India of late and they were runners-up in the recent Champions Trophy. 
 
&quot;You have seen in the last couple of years that we are getting better and better,&quot; said the 62-year-old Dutchman. 
 
&quot;If that&#39;s enough already to get medals at the Olympics that&#39;s something we have to prove. 
 
India&#39;s strong showing at last month&#39;s Champions Trophy in London has seen it rise a couple of spots to fifth in the world rankings, still some way behind Australia at the top of the chart. 
 
&quot;Its clear from where we are, winning a couple of medals in FIH (International Hockey Federation) tournaments, look at the world rankings at the moment,&quot; said Oltmans. 
 
&quot;It is all signals of revival but nothing more than that. It is up to us to prove it during the Olympics that we are there for a longer time,&quot; added the coach, who is also the teams high performance director. 
 
The Indian mens team has been drawn in Group B alongside Argentina, Canada, Germany, Ireland and Netherlands. The womens team, which is making its first appearance at an Olympics for 36 years, has been grouped with Argentina, Australia, Great Britain, Japan and the United States. 
 
(AFP)

Coach Roelant Oltmans introduces a new 'rotational captaincy' programme, which he hopes will push players to take on more responsibility

India's hockey coach Roelant Oltmans said today that skipper Sardar Singh had been replaced as captain for the Olympics as he backed the sport's one-time giants to continue their recent revival in Rio. After unveiling the 16-strong men and women's squads which will travel to Brazil, Oltmans said that goalkeeper Sreejesh Ravindran would lead the men's team under a new "rotational captaincy" programme. Singh, who has been captain of the team for the last for years, was picked in the squad and Oltmans insisted he remained a key player. But the move comes after he was accused in February of sexually harassing a woman who claims to have been his former girlfriend, accusations that Singh has strenuously denied. "I have been here for a three and a half years now and what I observed is a fairly hierarchic structure and when there is only one captain for long then the players shy away from responsibility," said Oltmans. "In a team, during a game, I need players who take responsibility. Changing the captaincy on the pitch gives far more responsibility. "Sardar is an important player but I am sure this (rotational captaincy) will help the team and it will help him as well," he added at a press conference in New Delhi. India once dominated the men's game at the Olympics and has won a total of eight golds. However the last of these was in Moscow back in 1980 and they finished last at the London games four years ago. Although not one of the favourites at next month's Olympics in Brazil, there have been encouraging signs for India of late and they were runners-up in the recent Champions Trophy. "You have seen in the last couple of years that we are getting better and better," said the 62-year-old Dutchman. "If that's enough already to get medals at the Olympics that's something we have to prove. India's strong showing at last month's Champions Trophy in London has seen it rise a couple of spots to fifth in the world rankings, still some way behind Australia at the top of the chart. "Its clear from where we are, winning a couple of medals in FIH (International Hockey Federation) tournaments, look at the world rankings at the moment," said Oltmans. "It is all signals of revival but nothing more than that. It is up to us to prove it during the Olympics that we are there for a longer time," added the coach, who is also the teams high performance director. The Indian mens team has been drawn in Group B alongside Argentina, Canada, Germany, Ireland and Netherlands. The womens team, which is making its first appearance at an Olympics for 36 years, has been grouped with Argentina, Australia, Great Britain, Japan and the United States. (AFP)

India hockey captain Sardar Singh replaced by Sreejesh Ravindran for Rio Olympics

Australia secured their place in the final of the 36th Hero Champions Trophy with a 2-0 win over Belgium in the preliminary league, while defending champions Germany were out of contention after being held 1-1 by Great Britain. 
Title holders Germany are without a victory from four outings, drawing three and losing one. This puts them out of contention from the title encounter. 
Britain stay in the hunt for the second spot in the final with five points from four matches and need to win the last fixture against Belgium tomorrow to stay in contention. 
World No. 1 Australia boosted their points tally to 10 from four matches to ensure that they would feature in the title showdown irrespective of any result in other matches. 
India are in the second place with seven points, followed by Britain on five and Belgium on four. 
Open play goals from Glenn Turner in the 38th minute and Tristan White in the 49th gave Australia the upper hand against the Belgians, who tried to put up a good contest but suffered from poor shooting. 
Australia, winners of the Champions Trophy for a record 13 times, take on India in their last round-robin league fixture tomorrow. That match is extremely important for India, who are on seven points from four outings. 
Germany today took the lead through a penalty corner goal by Tobias Hauke, who made good use of a rebound from the goalkeeper in the 29th minute. 
Britain shot back through a penalty corner strike of their own through Ashley Jackson to equalise in the 48th minute and split two points with Germany, who had won the title two years ago in Bhubaneswar

Open play goals from Glenn Turner in the 38th minute and Tristan White in the 49th gave Australia the upper hand against the Belgians

Australia secured their place in the final of the 36th Hero Champions Trophy with a 2-0 win over Belgium in the preliminary league, while defending champions Germany were out of contention after being held 1-1 by Great Britain. Title holders Germany are without a victory from four outings, drawing three and losing one. This puts them out of contention from the title encounter. Britain stay in the hunt for the second spot in the final with five points from four matches and need to win the last fixture against Belgium tomorrow to stay in contention. World No. 1 Australia boosted their points tally to 10 from four matches to ensure that they would feature in the title showdown irrespective of any result in other matches. India are in the second place with seven points, followed by Britain on five and Belgium on four. Open play goals from Glenn Turner in the 38th minute and Tristan White in the 49th gave Australia the upper hand against the Belgians, who tried to put up a good contest but suffered from poor shooting. Australia, winners of the Champions Trophy for a record 13 times, take on India in their last round-robin league fixture tomorrow. That match is extremely important for India, who are on seven points from four outings. Germany today took the lead through a penalty corner goal by Tobias Hauke, who made good use of a rebound from the goalkeeper in the 29th minute. Britain shot back through a penalty corner strike of their own through Ashley Jackson to equalise in the 48th minute and split two points with Germany, who had won the title two years ago in Bhubaneswar

Australia enter Hero Champions Trophy final, Germany knocked out

hockey

Hockey, News on Hockey, stories on Hockey, articles on Hockey, Hockey stories at Wion, Hockey news, Hockey latest news