Valencia, 19th December 2023: The Indian Women’s Hockey Team suffered a 1-3 defeat to Germany on Tuesday in the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023. Captain Nike Lorez (11’), Hanna Carina Granitzki (23’), and Charlotte Stapenhorst (52’) led the charge for Germany, scoring a goal each. Meanwhile, Nikki Pradhan (34′) was the lone goal-scorer for India. 

Germany took the game by the scruff of the neck in the first quarter. Captain Nike Lorez slotted the ball past Bichu Devi Kharibam to put Germany in the driving seat early on. 

Hanna Carina Granitzki doubled the lead for Germany in the second quarter through a penalty corner goal and presented India with a mountain to climb. 

After the halftime break, a reinvigorated Indian side sought to threaten the German goal. As the pressure continued to mount on the Germans, it was Nikki Pradhan, who powered a shot into goal from a penalty corner and presented India with a foothold in the contest. 

However, the momentum shifted back in Germany’s favour as Charlotte Stapenhorst’s goal in the last quarter restored their two-goal lead and sealed the victory for her team. 

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will face Ireland in their last match at 20:00 on 21st December.

Valencia, 19^th December 2023: The Indian Men’s Hockey Team lost to Germany 2-3 in their third match of the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 on Saturday. Abhishek and Shamsher Singh were the two goal scorers for India.  

The Indian team took the lead early in the game with a field goal from Abhishek (9’), which was quickly followed up by another field goal from Shamsher Singh (14’) as the first quarter ended with the score reading 2-0 in favour of India.   

The second quarter was a hard fought one with both teams vying for goals but it was Malte Hellwig (28’) who found the back of the net for Germany late in the second quarter as the score read 2-1 at half time with India holding on to the lead.  

The third quarter saw India exhibiting a strong display of defence as Germany were awarded two penalty corners but couldn’t convert either of the opportunities. With the match hanging well in the balance, Germany managed to equalize by means of a penalty stroke from Christopher Ruhr (50’). Germany then netted another goal to take the lead courtesy a penalty corner conversion from Gonzalo Peillat (51’) and went on to win the match 3-2 having not conceded any goals after the first quarter. 

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team will play France on 20^th December at 1530hrs IST.

Valencia, 17th December 2023: Indian Women’s Hockey Team lost to Belgium by 1-2 on Saturday in the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023. Belgium won the match, riding on goals from Ambre Ballenghien (22’) and Louise Versavel (37’). Meanwhile, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke (56’) scored the only goal for India.

The match was intense from the first whistle, with both teams looking to breach the defence of the other, but a goal was not forthcoming. The teams ended the first quarter on level terms.

“The breakthrough finally came in the second quarter as Ambre Ballenghien scored, giving Belgium the lead going into the halftime break.

Both teams were eager to score next and it was Louise Versavel’s shot on goal, early in the third quarter which extended Belgium’s lead in the contest.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team kept probing Belgium’s defence in search of a goal in the last quarter. In the dying moments of the game, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke found an opening and scored, swinging the momentum in their favour. However, India failed to capitalize further.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will face Germany next at 20:00 on 19th December.

Valencia, 16th December 2023: The Indian Men’s Hockey Team lost to Belgium 2-7 in their second match of the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 on Saturday. Abhishek and Jugraj Singh were the two goal scorers for India.  

The first quarter saw Belgium off the blocks and running in no time scoring three quick goals courtesy Cedric Charlier (1’), Alexander Hendrickx (10’) and Thibeau Stockbroekx (13’) to put India on the backfoot  

Belgium further extended the lead to four goals after another goal from Thibeau Stockbroekx (16’) early in the second quarter before a field goal from Abhishek (18’) for India. This was soon followed up by another goal from Tom Boon (26’) for Belgium as India were left trailing 1-5. Close to the end of the second quarter, Jugraj Singh (27’) converted a penalty corner for India as the score read 5-2 in favour of Belgium at half-time.  

No goals were scored in the third quarter despite both the teams applying constant pressure on each other. Tom Boon (46’) converted a penalty corner early in the fourth quarter to extend the lead for Belgium by four goals before Alexander Hendrickx (53’) followed it up later on with another goal.   

The Indians were unable to convert the two penalty corners they were awarded in the final quarter as the match ended with them losing 2-7.  

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team will play Germany on 19th December at 1530hrs IST.  

Kuala Lumpur, 16th December 2023: Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team went down 1-3 in a hard-fought Bronze medal match to Spain here on Saturday at the FIH Hockey Junior Men’s World Cup Malaysia 2023. Sunil Jojo (28’) scored the lone goal for India while Nicolas Alvarez (25’, 51’) and Pau Petchame (40’) scored for the winning side.   

The Bronze medal match lived up to its billing, with both sides putting up a fine show. India, which faced Spain in their Pool stage match and lost 1-4, made a fine start pushing for circle penetrations early in the game. They made early inroads, winning a PC in the 7th minute but could not convert. While the next few minutes continued to witness an inspired attack from Indian forward line, nothing could come off it. 

With the second quarter starting at a 0-0 stalemate, Alvarez opened the scoreline for Spain with a brilliant tomahawk from the corner of the goal. Though India goalie Mohit got his pads on it, the effort wasn’t enough to stop the goal. Only three minutes later, India gave a resounding reply when Sunil Jojo scored off a rebound from a PC execution in the 28th minute.  

The equaliser instilled fresh confidence in the Indian side, which made some brave forays into Spanish D. But Spain’s goalie Capellades was on target to make some fine saves. The half-time break, seemed to have fostered Spain’s aspirations for a medal as they came back with fresh ammunition to test the Indian defence.   

A good structure in the forward line ensured they found the break through with Petchame scoring the second goal for his team, thus taking a narrow lead of 2-1 in the 40th minute. The final 15 minutes was incredibly tense for Indian fans who had turned up in large numbers. The team began the fourth quarter with an effort to convert a circle penetration. But they could not breach the Spanish defence.   

In the meantime, Cabre Verdiell set up a stupendous goal, dribbling in from the left flank with Alvarez deflecting the ball into an empty goal as Mohith had moved to the other side. This 51st minute goal put India behind by 1-3 but hopes of a comeback remained as India won a PC in the 54th minute. However, Araijeet Hundal’s effort was cleared by Spanish defenders.   

India put up a brave fight towards the dying moments, but Spain remained in lead – handing India yet another heart-break loss in the medal match. In the previous edition in 2021 too, India had lost in the bronze medal match. 

Valencia, 15^th December 2023: The Indian Men’s Hockey Team lost 0-1 in their first match of the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 against Spain on Friday. Spain’s Alvaro Iglesias (29′) scored the only goal of the match.

The first quarter saw both teams earn a penalty corner each but neither managed to find the back of the net.

Spain took the initiative in the second quarter, forcing a penalty corner save from Krishan Pathak. The pressure was telling as India received a green card and Spain immediately pounced on the opportunity. Alvaro Iglesias breached India’s defence and scored the goal that presented Spain with the lead.

The third quarter witnessed both teams in an intense battle to score the next goal but they were unable to break the others’ tight defence.

India turned up the heat in the last quarter in the search for an equaliser, earning two penalty corners. However, they were unable to capitalise and the match ended in Spain’s favour.

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team will battle against Belgium at 20:00 on 16th December.

Valencia, 15^th December 2023: The Indian Women’s Hockey Team started their campaign in the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 with a 2-3 loss against the hosts, Spain, on Friday. Gurjit Kaur (13’) and Sangita Kumari (14’) each scored a goal for India, while Sara Barrios Navarro (2’), Patricia Alvarez Nardiz (30’), and Julia Strappato Garreta (53’) were on target for Spain.

The Spanish side kicked off the match aggressively and was rewarded for its effort with Sara Barrios Navarro breaking the deadlock in only the second minute of the game, putting her side ahead.

Thereafter, India launched a counterattack, pushing Spain back into their half and earning a penalty corner. Gurjit Kaur capitalised on this opportunity to unleash a powerful flick to bring India back on level terms. Soon after, Sangita Kumari breached the Spanish defence to grant India the lead as the first quarter ended 2-1 in India’s favour.

The second quarter saw a resilient Spain team fight back and equalise through Patricia Alvarez Nardiz’s goal.

Both teams continued to look for the goal that would give them the lead in the third quarter but the high-quality defence of both teams meant that the score remained 2-2.

Spain finally broke the deadlock in the last quarter as Julia Strappato Garreta scored from a penalty corner, sealing the victory for her team.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will face Belgium next at 22:15 on 16th December.

Please find attached schedule and pictures.

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About HOCKEY INDIA

HOCKEY INDIA (HI) is the governing body with exclusive mandate to direct and conduct all activities for both men and women’s hockey in India. It is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Govt. of India as the sole body responsible towards promoting Hockey in India.

Headquartered in New Delhi, Hockey India was established on 20th May, 2009 and is affiliated to the International Hockey Federation (FIH), the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).

Committed to the development of Hockey in the country, Hockey India with the assistance of Sports Authority of India and Department of Sports, Government of India, trains players at sub-junior, junior and senior level. The governing body engages in Coaching the coaches with International Standard certification programs, educates and equips technical officials and umpires to find a foothold in international arena, provides world-class infrastructure and International exposure for the players besides regular international competition. Hockey India has also pioneered in bringing top International hockey events to India such as the FIH Men’s World Cup in 2010 and 2018, FIH Champions Trophy in 2014, FIH Junior Men’s World Cup in 2016 and 2021, FIH Hockey World League Final in 2017. With its vision to popularize the game and constantly promote it, Hockey India brought the Indian Men’s Hockey Team into the top three in the world. Hockey India is also dedicated to getting the Indian Women’s Hockey Team into the top three in the world.

Kuala Lumpur, 15^th December 2023: The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team will look to put the disappointment of their Semi-Final loss to Germany behind them when they take on Spain for the second time in the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023 on Saturday, 16^th December in the 3^rd/4^th place match.

The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team have had a good run in the tournament including a thrilling 4-3 win over the Netherlands in the Quarter-Final, where they came back from being 0-2 down at halftime. Earlier in the tournament, they won their first Pool C game against Korea 4-2 before losing 1-4 to Spain and then beating Canada 10-1 in their final group stage match.

Notably, India have played against Spain eight times in Men’s Junior World Cup history with the latter having the edge over India, winning five of those battles, the most recent match going in favour of Spain. However, after the Semi-Final loss to Germany, India would like to set the record straight against Spain, when they play them in a contest for the Bronze medal.

Indian Junior Men’s Team Captain, Uttam Singh, said, “It is disappointing that we aren’t in the final but we have to put the loss behind us. We have one last match to give our all and we’re going to focus on trying to win that game.”

Meanwhile, Coach C R Kumar said, “We really would’ve loved to have been playing the final but now we just have to focus on what lies ahead of us. Finishing third in a World Cup also commands a lot of respect so we’ll play the best hockey we can.”

India will face Spain in the 3^rd/4^th place playoff match on Saturday, 16^th December 2023 at 1530hrs IST.

The Final of the tournament will take place on 16^th December between Germany and France.

The matches will be broadcast on Viacom Sports 18 – 3 and Sports 18 – 1 HD, as well as live-streamed on JioCinema.

Kuala Lumpur, 14^th December 2023: The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team went down 1-4 in a hard-fought match against Germany in the Semi-Finals of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023, here on Thursday. The Indian Team, led by Uttam Singh, will now play the loser of the second Semi-Final between France and Spain to be played later in the day.

 

The first quarter wasn’t short on action as the Indian Team was awarded two penalty corners within the first four minutes, but it was Germany that drew first blood with a goal from Ben Hasbach (8’). India were quick to equalize, courtesy of a brilliant field goal from Sudeep Chirmako (11’), as the first quarter ended with the score reading 1-1.

 

The second quarter was rather quiet. While India did have multiple opportunities in the form of penalty corners, they were unable to convert any into goals. Germany were awarded their first penalty corner of the match early in the last minute of the second quarter, and they made full use of it as Ben Hasbach (30’) netted his second goal. The score read 1-2 in favour of Germany with the teams heading in at halftime.

 

The Indian Team started the third quarter on the front foot and was rewarded for their aggressive approach as they won their eleventh penalty corner with six minutes left in the third quarter, but Germany managed to keep them from scoring. Paul Glander (41’) converted Germany’s second penalty corner to double the lead, taking the score to 1-3 at the end of the third quarter.

 

The Indians put pressure on the Germans in the 4th quarter but were unable to penetrate through their defense. India found hope in the form of two back-to-back penalty corners with less than ten minutes remaining in the game, but neither was converted as the German defenders were relentless. Florian Spirling (58’) scored Germany’s fourth goal with just a few minutes left on the clock to confirm their place in the Final as India ended up losing the game 1-4.

India will now battle it out for the third place when they play the loser of the second Semi-Final, where France is facing Spain, on 16th December at 1530hrs IST.

The matches will be broadcast on Viacom Sports 18 – 3 and Sports 18 – 1 HD, as well as live-streamed on JioCinema.

 

Valencia, 14th December 2023: The Indian Men’s and Women’s Hockey are all set to participate in the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 from 15th December to 22nd December. The other teams taking part in the Tournament are Spain, Belgium, Germany, Ireland, and France.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will take on host, Spain, in the first game of the tournament on 15th December and go on to battle against Belgium on 16th December, Germany on 19th December, and Ireland in their last match of the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 on 21st December.

Ahead of their first match against Spain, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team Captain Savita said, “It has been three days since we arrived in Valencia, with our acclimation done we are now ready to get the tournament underway against Spain. We will face some of the best-ranked teams in the world and use this opportunity to work on our weaknesses in preparation for the upcoming FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier Ranchi 2024. We will play our hearts out in every game as it is the perfect stage to fine-tune our performance.”

Similarly, the Indian Men’s Hockey Team will face hosts, Spain in the first match on 15th December, followed by a contest against Belgium on 16th December, Germany on 19th December, and France on 20th December to end their 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 campaign.

Indian Men’s Hockey Team Captain Harmanpreet Singh is also confident about their performance ahead of their first match. He said, “A few of the top hockey teams have come to Valencia, all of them vying to use this window to improve their game and we are no different. We will treat every match as an important match and strive to win the tournament. The team is raring to play hockey again and make the country proud.”

 

Match line-up for 15th December:

Women’s – Spain vs India @ 1530 hrs

Men’s – Spain vs India @ 1745 hrs

Kuala Lumpur, 13th December 2023: Following an exhilarating comeback win against the Netherlands in the Quarter-Final of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023, the Indian Colts are set to face the formidable Germans in the Semi-Final round on Thursday, 14th December 2023, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In the previous matches, the Indian Team secured a 4-2 victory against Korea, suffered a 4-1 defeat to Spain, and bounced back with a commanding 10-1 win over Canada, ultimately securing a second-place finish in Pool C. Notably, India triumphed over the Netherlands, a European powerhouse ranked fourth in world rankings, in a thrilling Quarter-Final clash, staging a remarkable comeback to conquer the Dutch with a 4-3 scoreline.

Reflecting on the incredible turnaround in the Quarter-Finals on Tuesday and playing under pressure, Captain Uttam Singh, “We are now used to playing under pressure. Be it the Asia Cup Final against Pakistan or the Bronze Medal match in the Sultan of Johor Cup, we have played and won under pressure. It’s something we have worked on and we have developed a skill set. It also helps that five players from the existing team were part of the previous Junior World Cup, so our experience also comes in handy.”

The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team has faced Germany four times this year and has lost on all four occasions, with their last defeat coming in the Semi-Finals of the Sultan of Johor Cup 2023 3-6. Notably, India faltered to Germany by 2-4 in the Semi-Finals of the FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Bhubaneswar 2021 as well.

Eager to set the record straight the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team Chief Coach said, “Germany are a strong team and we faced them in the Sultan of Johor Cup recently but with a slightly different squad and a different approach. We have analysed all the teams in the World Cup, Germany included, and the added learning from the previous matches against them will put us in a good position ahead of the game. The players know that Germany isn’t unbeatable, it’s a matter of executing the plan.”

Being the only Asian team amongst the Semi-Finalists, Captain Uttam Singh is confident of a good performance. He said, “The dream of every player in the team is to win the Final and we are working tirelessly towards that goal. The team is in good form and we know the strengths and weaknesses of Germany after facing them so many times. We don’t want to just be participants at the world events. We want to win it and we play with that motivation. So we will use the remaining time to prepare ourselves for the match and ensure we give our best against Germany tomorrow.”

India will face Germany in the Semi-Final on 14th December at 1530 hrs IST.

The matches will be broadcast on Sports 18 – 3 and Sports 18 – 1 HD, as well as live-streamed on JioCinema.

Kuala Lumpur, 12th December 2023: The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey team produced a spectacular display of grit and character to beat the Netherlands 4-3 in a thrilling Quarter Finals of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023 after trailing 0-2 at half-time and 3-2 in the third quarter.  

In a match that lived up to the billing of a Quarter Final encounter between world no.3 India and world no.4 Netherlands, India exhibited immense resilience to qualify for the Semi-Finals where they will take on Germany on the 14th of December. 

The Netherlands set the ball rolling early in the first quarter with a penalty corner conversion from Timo Boers (5’). Despite the Indian side playing a solid defence, Pepijn van der Heijden (16’) scored for the Netherlands in the second quarter through another penalty corner conversion taking their lead to 2-0 at half-time.  

India came back strongly in the third quarter with a goal from Aditya Lalage (34’) assisted by Araijeet Singh Hundal. Two minutes later Araijeet scored the equalizer for India with a penalty stroke. The India colts kept the pressure on the Dutch but they managed yet another penalty corner that was converted by Olivier Hortensius (44’) late in the third quarter as the Dutch snatched a narrow lead of one goal at the end of the third quarter. 

With less than ten minutes remaining, the Indians raised the tempo of their game and it proved fruitful as Sourabh Anand Kushwaha (52’) found the back of the net off a rebound following a brilliant attack to get the score reading 3-3. Another opportunity for a penalty corner conversion was created, this time in favour of India and they made full use of it with Captain Uttam Singh (57’) scoring to put India ahead with just three minutes left. With just a couple of minutes left on the clock, the pressure was on the Dutch to equalize.   

India colts victory was backed by a grand show of character to hold off pressure from the Dutch side, and the cynosure of India’s defence was Rohit who was hard to breach – as he blocked away six successive PCs in the final quarter ensuring India emerge victorious. He was awarded player of the match for his efforts.   

India will play Germany in the first semi-final on Thursday, 14th December at 1530hrs IST. 

The matches will be broadcast on Viacom Sports 18 – 3 and Sports 18 – 1 HD, as well as live-streamed on JioCinema.  

New Delhi, 9^th December, 2023: Day 7 of the 1st Hockey India Junior and Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A) witnessed Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy and Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy win their respective Semi-Finals in the Sub Junior Category while Namdhari XI and Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy won their respective Semi-Finals in the Junior Category.   

Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy wins thriller:   

In the first Semi-Final of the Sub Junior Category, Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy defeated HAR Hockey Academy 2-2 (5-3 SO). Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy’s Tashu (6’) opened the scoring in the first quarter. Captain of HAR Hockey Academy Sachin (27’) equalized in the second quarter with a penalty corner conversion. In the dying moments of the match, Yuvraj Singh scored a field goal for Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy to take the lead with just two minutes left on the clock but HAR Hockey Academy Captain Sachin (60’) again converted a penalty corner to take the match into a penalty shoot-out with the game tied at 2-2 at the end of regulation time. Goalkeeper of Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy Dishu blocked a shot from Monu while Kunal, Jatin, Yuvraj Singh, Nishant and Tashu scored as they won the shoot out 5-3 to qualify for the finals.  

Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy sails into Final: 
In the second Semi-Final of the Sub Junior Category, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy defeated Raja Karan Hockey Academy 9-1. Captain Inderjit Singh (3’, 21’, 26’) scored a hat trick, Charanjeet Singh (8’, 10’) scored a brace while Amandeep (9’), Samuel (27’), Varinder Singh (45’) and Arshdip Singh (56’) scored a goal each for Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy. A solitary goal for Raja Karan Hockey Academy came from Mayank Rawat (23’) wasn’t enough to stop Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy from qualifying for the Final.  

Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy will face Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy in the Final while HAR Hockey Academy will play Raja Karan Hockey Academy in the 3rd/4th place match in the Sub Junior category on the 10th December.  

Namdhari XI scrapes past Army Boys Sports Company:  

In the first Semi-Final of the Junior Category, Namdhari XI defeated Army Boys Sports Company 1-1 (3-2 SO). Manjeet (11’) scored for Army Boys Sports Company in the first quarter with a penalty corner conversion. Another penalty corner was converted, this time by Bihara Singh (19’) in the second quarter for Namdhari XI to level the score at 1-1. No further goals were scored despite both teams coming close as the score read 1-1 at full time, taking the game into a shoot-out. Goal-keeper Himmat Singh of Namdhari XI made three crucial saves while Captain Navraj Singh, Yuvraj Singh and Pawel Singh found the back of the net as they went on to qualify for the Final having won the shoot-out 3-2. 

Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy comfortably qualifies for Final:  

In the second Semi-Final of the Sub Junior Category, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy defeated HAR Hockey Academy 15-0. Captain Gursewak Singh (2’, 40’, 55’, 59’) scored four goals, Lovenoor Singh (5’, 33’), Jarman Singh (19’, 37’) and Sukhjeet Singh Gaddu (41’, 45’) scored braces while Japnit Singh (2’), Om Rajnesh Saini (14’), Prince Kumar (22’), Prabhjot Singh (28’) and Bansal Himanshu (49’) scored a goal each for Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy as they carried their dominant form to qualify for the Final.  

Namdhari XI will face Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy in the finals while Army Boys Sports Company will play HAR Hockey Academy in the 3rd/4th place match in the Junior category on the 10th of December. 

New Delhi, 8th December, 2023: Day 6 of the 1st Hockey India Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A) witnessed Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy win their match in the Sub Junior Category to top Pool B and qualify for the Semi-Finals.    

Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy wins three in a row:  

In the Sub Junior Category, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy defeated Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 10-1. Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy’s Yuvraj Singh (6’) scored the opening goal of the match but that was the only moment of glory they found in the game as Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy fired in 10 goals thereafter. The goals came from Amandeep (14’, 47’, 49’), Sunny (36’, 60’), Charanjeet Singh (8’), Gurjot Singh (11’), Samuel (16’), Rajbhar Sajan (27’) and Varinder Singh (51’) as RHA went on to top Pool B and qualify for the Semis. Despite the loss, Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy qualified for the Semis, having finished second in their Pool.  

Sub Junior Category Semi-Finals line-up (to be played on 9th December): 

1st Semi-Final: HAR Hockey Academy vs Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 

2nd Semi-Final: Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy vs Raja Karan Hockey Academy 

New Delhi, 7^th December, 2023: Day 5 of the 1st Hockey India Junior and Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A) witnessed Raja Karan Hockey Academy and Cheema Hockey Academy win their respective matches in the Sub Junior category while Army Boys Sports Company, Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy and Namdhari XI won their respective matches in the Junior category.    

Raja Karan Hockey Academy qualifies for Semis: 

In the first match of the Sub Junior Category, Raja Karan Hockey Academy defeated Bhai Behlo Academy Bhagta 6-0. Mayank Rawat (3’, 27’, 34’) scored a hat-trick for Raja Karan Hockey Academy while Hargun Singh (22’), Sahil (33’) and Kumar Paras (50’) contributed a goal each as they confirmed their place in the Semi-Finals. 

Cheema Hockey Academy records first win: 

In the second match of the Sub Junior Category, Cheema Hockey Academy defeated Salute Hockey Academy 6-0. Robanpreet Singh (10’, 36’, 47’, 52’) scored four goals while Masih Vansh (27’) and Tushal (44’) scored a goal each as Cheema Hockey Academy ended their tournament on a high. 

Army Boys Sports Company continues unbeaten streak:  

In the first match of the Junior Category, Army Boys Sports Company defeated HAR Hockey Academy 5-1. Manjeet (19’, 48’) scored a brace and Captain Harpal (18’), Samir (35’) and Ankush (50’) scored a goal each for Army Boys Sports Company. The lone goal from Nitin (14’) for HAR Hockey Academy didn’t prevent Army Boys Sports Company from finishing at the top of the table in Pool A. 

Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta records comfortable victory: 

In the second match of the Junior Category, Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta defeated Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 5-1. Shamsher Singh (33’, 60’) and Satnam Singh (36’, 58’) scored braces while Captain Deepak Singh (39’) scored one goal for Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy. The lone goal for Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy came in the fourth quarter from Rohan (47’). 

Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy tops Pool B: 

In the third match of the Junior Category, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy defeated Markandeshwar Hockey Academy 8-2. Japnit Singh (44’, 47’, 52’) scored a hat-trick, Captain Gursewak Singh (22’, 27’) scored a brace and Joban Singh (6’), Om Rajnesh Saini (8’) and Prince Kumar (44’) scored a goal each for Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy. Jatin (11’) and Sahil (23’) scored the two goals for Markandeshwar Hockey Academy as they bowed out of the tournament since they didn’t finish in the top two from Pool B. 

Namdhari XI wins three in a row to qualify for semis: 

In the fourth match of the Junior Category, Namdhari XI defeated Cheema Hockey Academy 7-2. Captain Navraj Singh (11’, 25’, 39’) led from the front for Namdhari XI and was well supported by Mandeep Singh (7’), Bihara Singh (32’), Yuvraj Singh (46’) and Dharam Singh (54’) who scored a goal each. Cheema Hockey Academy found themselves at 2-2 a few minutes into the second quarter after a brace from Divyanshu Sharma (3’, 18’) but a barrage of goals from Namdhari XI meant that Cheema Hockey Academy would finish at the bottom of their pool following the loss.  

Junior Category Semi-Final line-up (to be played on 9th December): 

1st Semi-final – Army Boys Sports Company vs Namdhari XI 

2nd Semi-final – Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy vs HAR Hockey Academy 

New Delhi, 6th December, 2023: Day 4 of the 1st Hockey India Junior and Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A) witnessed HAR Hockey Academy and Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy win their respective matches in the in the Sub Junior category while Army Boys Sports Company, Salute Hockey Academy, Markandeshwar Hockey Academy and Namdhari XI won their respective matches in the Junior category.    

HAR Hockey Academy records second straight win: 

In the first match of the Sub Junior Category, HAR Hockey Academy defeated Bhai Behlo Academy Bhagta 14-0. Sahil (7’, 20’, 22’, 27’, 43’) and Monu (12’, 28’, 30’, 48’) scored nine goals between them while Amarjeet (41’, 53’) scored a brace. Aman (18′), Ankit (21’) and Goyat Sourabh (51’) scored a goal each for HAR Hockey Academy.  

Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy wins two in a row: 

In the second match of the Sub Junior Category, Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy defeated Cheema Hockey Academy 18-1. Kunal (2’, 6’, 22’, 59’) and Phalswal Pankaj (29’, 49’, 52’, 60’) scored four goals each, Kataria Hitesh (4’, 15’, 38’) scored a hat-trick, Pryash (37’, 53’) scored a brace while Jatin (7’), Nishant (10’), Jay (45’), Kumar Mandeep (53’) and Yuvraj Singh (55’) scored a goal each for Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy. Goyalpreet Singh (23’) scored the lone goal for Cheema Hockey Academy.  

Army Boys Sports Company records comfortable win:  

In the first match of the Junior Category, Army Boys Sports Company defeated Bhai Behlo Academy Bhagta 10-0. Ashish (21’, 39’), Samir (28’, 35’) and Ankush (23’, 41’) scored braces while Nitesh Sharma (6’), Manjeet (14’), Raman (32’) and Kumar Sahil (43’) contributed a goal each for Army Boys Sports Academy as they continued their dominant run in the tournament.  

Salute Hockey Academy records first victory: 

In the second match of the Junior Category, Salute Hockey Academy defeated Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 3-1. Vishwjeet (5’) scored the first goal for Salute Hockey Academy but Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy Captain Yuvraj Singh (34’) equalized in the third quarter. Goals from Yogesh (51’) and Jatin (60’) for Salute Hockey Academy in the final quarter to confirm their first win in the tournament.   

Markandeshwar Hockey Academy wins their first game: 

In the third match of the Junior Category, Markandeshwar Hockey Academy defeated Cheema Hockey Academy 4-2. Karambir Singh (29’, 47’) scored a brace while Kumar Parveen (50’) and Sahil (57’) scored a goal each for Markandeshwar Hockey Academy. Goals from Charanjit Singh (26’) and Divyanshu Sharma (48’) for Cheema Hockey Academy weren’t enough to overcome Markandeshwar Hockey Academy as they went on to notch up their first win of the competition.  

Namdhari XI wins second successive game: 

In the fourth match of the Junior Category, Namdhari XI defeated Raja Karan Hockey Academy 6-1. Namdhari XI Captain Navraj Singh (19’, 49’) led from the front with a brace and was well supported by Yash Budh (11’), Yuvraj Singh (24’), Pawel Singh (50’) and Rampal Sharma (57’) who scored a goal each. Raghav (51’) scored the only goal for Raja Karan Hockey Academy which came in the fourth quarter. 

Santiago, 1st December 2023: The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team put up a solid show in their second game of the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2023 but the runners-up of the last edition of the elite tournament, Germany, came from behind to register a 4-3 victory in a thrilling match played in Santiago, Chile, on Friday. 

For India, Annu (11’), Ropni Kumari (14’), and Mumtaz Khan (24’) were the goalscorers, while Sophia Schwabe (17’), Laura Pluth (21’, 36’), and Carolin Seidel’s (38’) netted goals for Germany. 

India quickly settled into a passing rhythm, dominating the game in the opening quarter by controlling possession and continuously testing Germany’s defensive line. Despite their early efforts, India were thwarted by Germany’s sturdy defense, preventing them from scoring until the closing minutes of the quarter. It was during this period of sustained pressure that the Indian team secured consecutive penalty corners, and Annu (11’) capitalized on the second opportunity with a powerful shot, finally putting her team in the lead. 

Shortly after breaking the deadlock, India further solidified their position as Ropni Kumari (14’) elegantly found the net with a well-executed shot from another penalty corner. The first quarter concluded with India leading 2-0, marking a successful start for the team. 

Germany, determined to turn the tide, approached the second quarter with renewed zeal. Their efforts bore fruit as Sophia Schwabe (17’) scored an impressive field goal, reducing the deficit for Germany. Building on this momentum, Laura Pluth (21’) fired a powerful strike to level the score. However, India swiftly responded as Mumtaz Khan (24’) skillfully put the ball past the opposition’s goalkeeper, shifting the momentum back in India’s favour and putting them in front again as they went into the half-time break with a 3-2 lead. 

Determined to maintain their lead, India prioritized ball possession in the third quarter, yet Germany managed to level the score. Laura Pluth (36’) struck for the second time, equalizing the game. Motivated by their resurgence, Germany intensified their attacks, seizing the lead with Carolin Seidel’s (38’) goal from a penalty corner. 

India, eager to retaliate, increased their frequency of attacks. But, despite their efforts, the score remained 4-3 in favour of Germany by the close of the third quarter. 

The final quarter witnessed an aggressive display from both sides, with Germany coming close to extending their lead. However, Indian goalkeeper Madhuri Kindo’s exceptional save in a one-on-one situation denied Germany a chance to extend their lead. Meanwhile, India earned consecutive penalty corners in the dying minutes but failed to convert. The fourth quarter concluded without any goals, culminating in a 4-3 victory for Germany. 

The Indian team will next take on Belgium in their third match of the tournament on 2nd December at 18:30hrs IST.

The matches will be broadcast on Viacom Sports 18 – 3 and Sports 18 – 1 HD, as well as live-streamed on JioCinema. 

Kovilpatti, 30th November 2023: The final day of the 1st Hockey India Junior and Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone B) witnessed SAIL Hockey Academy win in both the Junior and Sub Junior categories after having defeated Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre and Smart Hockey Academy, Rapiur in their respective finals. Tamil Nadu Hockey Academy finished third in the Sub Junior Category while Hubli Hockey Academy finished third in the Junior Category. 

SAIL Hockey Academy prevails in the Final:  

SAIL Hockey Academy defeated Smart Hockey Academy, Raipur 4-1 in the Final of the 1st Hockey India Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone B) to take the trophy home. Hasti Anand (12’, 45’) paved the way with a brace while Kaetha Bishal (6’) and Kujur Manish (39’) found the back of the net as well for SAIL Hockey Academy. Meanwhile, Bakawale Gagan (59’) netted the lone goal for Smart Hockey Academy, Raipur.  

Tamil Nadu Hockey Academy finishes third:   

In the 3rd/4th place match in the Sub Junior Category, Tamil Nadu Hockey Academy defeated Lakshmi Ammal Sports Academy 3-1 to win the Bronze medal. Tamil Nadu Hockey Academy was up and running in no time as Kamalesh S (11’) and Captain S Lakshmanan Sri (12’) scored in the first quarter. Kavisakthibose (24’) scored for Lakshmi Ammal Sports Academy but another goal for Tamil Nadu Hockey Academy from Jagdeesh K (36’) in the third quarter ensured them a bronze medal finish.  

SAIL Hockey Academy defeated Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre in a thriller:  

SAIL Hockey Academy defeated Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre 3-2 in the Final of the Junior category. Munda Satish (3’) put Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre in the lead early in the game but successive goals from Ekka Samir (14’) and Nabin Lakra (19’) for SAIL Hockey Academy took them to a 2-1 lead at half time. Irengbam Rohit Singh (43’) equalized late in the third quarter but it was the goal from Toppo Amit (49’) for SAIL Hockey Academy in the final quarter that sealed the deal as they went on to win the Gold medal.  

Hubli Hockey Academy wins close battle:  

In the 3rd/4th place match in the Junior category, Hubli Hockey Academy defeated Berar Hockey Academy (Vidarbha) Amravati 2-1. Pavan Raghavendra Dodmani (29’) scored the first goal of the match in the second quarter for Hubli Hockey Academy but Berar Hockey Academy (Vidarbha) Amravati’s Anil Vilas Rathod (39’) equalized in the third quarter. Vivek Ravi Bagade (43’) put Hubli Hockey Academy back in the lead in no time and with no goals scored in the fourth quarter, they won the match to finish in third place.  

New Delhi, 30th November 2023: Hockey India on Thursday announced the 24-member Indian Men’s Hockey Team for the upcoming 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023, scheduled to be held from 15th to 22nd December in Valencia, Spain.

India will play against hosts Spain, Germany, France and Belgium in the 5 Nations tournament, which will serve as the preparatory event ahead of the 2023-24 FIH Hockey Pro League games. 

The 24-member squad features a mix of experienced and young faces, who will be led by ace drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh. Sumit and Amit Rohidas have been named as Harman’s deputies for this tour.

The goalkeeping department will see the return of Suraj Karkera to the squad, along with regular features PR Sreejesh and Krishan B Pathak. In defence, Captain Harmanpreet Singh will lead the charge alongside Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas, Varun Kumar, Sumit, Sanjay and Nilam Sanjeep Xess.

The midfield features Vivek Sagar Prasad, Nilakanta Sharma, Rajkumar Pal, Shamsher Singh, and young faces like Yashdeep Siwach and Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem.

Meanwhile, the forward line comprises Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Karthi Selvam, Dilpreet Singh and Akashdeep Singh.

Speaking on the team selection, Indian Men’s Hockey Team Chief Coach Craig Fulton said, “We are going with a well-balanced side with a good mix of youth and experience. The tournament provides us with a great platform to try out different things and adjust ourselves accordingly. It also provides the younger players with a great opportunity to showcase their talent and experience the pressure of facing the top teams in the world.”

“The next seven months are very important for us, we have a lot of games to play before the Paris 2024 Olympics, and it’s very important we follow a process and go step-by-step,” he added.
 

Indian Men’s Hockey Team for 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 

GOALKEEPERS

1. Sreejesh Parattu Raveendran

2. Krishan Bahadur Pathak

3. Suraj Karkera

DEFENDERS 

4. Jarmanpreet Singh 

5. Jugraj Singh

6. Amit Rohidas (VC) 

7. Harmanpreet Singh (C)   

8. Varun Kumar

9. Sumit (VC)

10. Sanjay

11. Nilam Sanjeep Xess 

MIDFIELDERS 

12. Yashdeep Siwach   

13. Vivek Sagar Prasad  

14. Nilakanta Sharma

15. Rajkumar Pal

16. Shamsher Singh 

17. Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem

FORWARDS 

18. Mandeep Singh

19. Abhishek

20. Sukhjeet Singh  

21. Lalit Kumar Upadhyay

22. Karthi Selvam

23. Dilpreet Singh

24. Akashdeep Singh

Indian Men’s Team Schedule

• Friday, 15th December 2023: India vs Spain at 15:45 IST
• Saturday, 16th December 2023: India vs Belgium at at 15:45 IST
• Tuesday, 19th December 2023: India vs Germany at 13:30 IST
• Wednesday, 20th December 2023: India vs France at 13:30 IST