Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian men’s junior hockey team for winning the Junior Asia Cup 2024. He described their victory as a historic moment for Indian hockey, highlighting their skill, grit, and teamwork.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Proud of our hockey champions! It’s a historic moment for Indian hockey as our Men’s Junior Team wins the Junior Asia Cup 2024 title. Their unmatched skill, unwavering grit and incredible teamwork have etched this win into the annals of sporting glory. Congratulations to the young champions and best wishes for their future endeavours.”
The Indian team triumphed 5-3 over archrivals Pakistan in a thrilling final on Wednesday. This marks their fifth Junior Asia Cup title, having previously won in 2023, 2015, 2008, and 2004.
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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also congratulated the team, calling their victory “golden history” and expressing national pride.
India’s Araijeet Singh Hundal was the star, scoring four goals in the 4th, 18th, 47th, and 54th minutes. Dilraj Singh added another goal in the 19th minute. Pakistan’s Shahid Hannan (3′) and Sufyan Khan (30′, 39′) fought hard but could not prevent the loss.
Hockey India announced a cash reward of Rs 2 lakh for each player and Rs 1 lakh for each support staff member in recognition of their dominant performance.