Hockey team returns to rousing welcome

NDTV Correspondent
Tuesday, May 20, 2008 ()
The young Indian hockey team that won the silver medal at the recent Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, returned on Monday night. And for once, it was bouquets and not brickbats.

In fact, there's more joy in store for them. There is a grand felicitation in store, with the Indian Olympic Association deciding to celebrate the early returns on its hockey investment.

"We weren't under any pressure or worried about failure. The boys knew that a medal would mean unexpected success. I would say it was a bonus for us," said coach AK Bansal.

India reaches Azlan Shah final after 12 years

India reaches Azlan Shah final after 12 yearsIpoh (Malaysia), May 17(ANI): India defeated hosts Malayasia by 2-1 in their last round robin match to reach the final of Azlan Shah hockey tournament after 12 years in Ipoh on Saturday.

Shivendra Singh scored with a ninth minute goal and Sandeep singh followed him a minute after in the crucial match, before Mohammad Amin Rahim scored a consolation goal for the hosts.

India with 12 points, now meets Argentina, who have finished with 14 points in the final on Sunday.

This was India’s fourth straight victory after losing the first two games in the tournament.

Sandip Singh hit the ball from outside the Malaysian circle which was deflected in by Shivendra singh, putting the first goal on board for India. (ANI)