The Women’s Champions Trophy returning to Bihar, hosted in Rajgir, is a monumental event that resonates with the state’s rich history in hockey. This tournament brings international hockey back to a region where the sport has deep roots, dating back to 1904 when it was first played at Patna College. Over the years, Bihar has nurtured remarkable talents who have left an indelible mark on Indian hockey. A prominent figure in Bihar’s hockey legacy is Jaipal Singh Munda, a celebrated leader who captained the Indian hockey team to its first Olympic gold at the 1928 Amsterdam Games. Munda’s influence extended beyond sports, as he also advocated for tribal rights and made significant contributions as a political leader.
The establishment of the Bihar Hockey Association in 1986 was a significant step in formally organizing the sport at a state level, ensuring structured competitions and opportunities for players to thrive. Bihar’s contribution to Indian hockey continued with players like Zafar Iqbal, a Patna native, who was instrumental in India’s 1980 Olympic gold medal win in Moscow. This victory brought immense pride to India during a politically charged era, underscoring Bihar’s role in the nation’s sports achievements. Ajitesh Roy, another talent from Bihar, captained the Indian hockey team during the 2008-09 period, demonstrating the state’s ongoing legacy in nurturing leaders within the sport.
The more recent success of players like Vivek Sagar, who was part of India’s bronze-winning team at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and coach Harendra Singh, known for his contributions to both the men’s and women’s national teams, highlights Bihar’s continued influence on Indian hockey. Singh’s coaching expertise has been instrumental in guiding Indian teams to international success, showcasing Bihar’s role in not just player development but also in producing top-tier coaches.
With the Champions Trophy being held in Rajgir, Bihar is in the spotlight as an emerging venue for international sports. The state government, alongside Hockey India, has worked diligently to make this event a success, hoping it will inspire the next generation of hockey players in Bihar. Hosting the Women’s Champions Trophy is a proud moment for Bihar, reviving the state’s legacy in Indian hockey and reaffirming its commitment to developing the sport. This tournament represents not only a celebration of Bihar’s contributions to hockey but also a new chapter in fostering young talent and sports culture within the state.
India schedule:
Despite a mixed performance throughout the year, the Indian women’s hockey team is eager to defend their title at the 2024 Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, set to take place from November 11 to 20 in Rajgir, Bihar. This tournament not only presents India with the chance to reclaim continental glory but also marks a historic moment as the first international hockey event hosted in Bihar. Led by captain Salima Tete and vice-captain Navneet Kaur, the Indian team begins its campaign against Malaysia on November 11. They face Korea on November 12, followed by a rest day before taking on Thailand on November 14. The pool stage will continue with a high-stakes match against China, the Paris Olympics silver medalists, on November 16, before concluding against Japan on November 17. With a balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talent, the Indian team aims to capitalize on this home-ground advantage to make a strong impression in Rajgir.
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