In the lead up to the prestigious FIH Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup 2023 Bhubaneswar - Rourkela which begins on 13th January 2023, the coveted trophy will travel across 13 states and one Union Territory before returning to Odisha on 25 December.
Close to half a century ago, the Indian Men's Hockey Team were crowned champions when they won the 1975 World Cup in Kuala Lumpur under the able leadership of Ajit Pal Singh
The Savita-led team began their campaign with a dominant 3-1 win over Chile, before defeating Japan 2-1 and South Africa 2-0 in their third Pool B match to top the group with 9 points and secure their place in the semifinal, according to a press release from Hockey India.
With three straight wins, India is placed on top of pool B with nine points and will play the semifinal against Ireland. In pool A, hosts Spain lead the points table after two wins and a draw. India's goals came from Deep Grace Ekka (14') and Gurjit Kaur (59').
The Organizing Committee expressed satisfaction over the progress of the works. All the officials present were requested to put in their best efforts and ensure that the Hockey World Cup is a grand success.
Pragmatic in his assessment of the team's progress, the ace drag-flicker Harmanreet Singh, who recently led the team during the Australia tour highlighted that the five-match series against the world No.1 side has given the team insights into the areas that need improvement ahead of the Worl
Sports Authority of India 'A' will take on Sports Authority of India 'B' and Har Hockey Academy will take on Pritam Siwach Sports Promotion Foundation in the semi-finals.