NEW DELHI: Hockey India has announced a cash award of Rs 100,000 each to the 18-member Indian women’s team that lifted the Women’s Asia Cup in Japan. The Indian team also notched up another triumph of sorts on Monday by breaking into the top 10 in the FIH world rankings. Gaining two places in the ranking table, the team is now placed at number 10 behind Korea and ahead of Spain.
The Indian team that beat China in the final to win the Women’s Asia Cup is the first after 13 years and has ensured India a berth in the 2018 Women’s World Cup as Continental Champions. The Indian team had last won the Asia Cup held in New Delhi in 2004. Hockey India has also announced a Rs 1,00,000 award for the chief coach and Rs 50,000 each for the support staff of the Women’s Asia Cup 2017 success.
The team beat China 5-4 in a nail-biting Final which went into a penalty shootout where Rani scored in sudden death and goalkeeper Savita made a brilliant save after the two teams were at a 4-4 deadlock after five penalty shootout attempts.
India showcased incredible form throughput the tournament as they won all their matches beating higher ranked China (World No.8) and Japan (World No.11). The team scored a total 28 goals and conceded only five goals in the entire tournament, proving their domination right from the first match where they beat Singapore 10-0 in the Pool Stage.
Hockey India secretary general Md Mushtaque Ahmad said, “This is truly a commendable achievement by the Indian Women’s Team bringing back the Asia Cup after 13 years. They have shown great spirit and determination to win this tournament and have rightfully qualified for the World Cup next year as Continental Champions. Hockey India congratulates Captain Rani and the entire team, including the support staff and coaching staff for this victory. We are extremely proud of this win and wish them the very best for future tournaments.”
