India Women’s Hockey Team Prepares for Asian Champions Trophy in Bihar
The Indian women’s hockey team has arrived in Gaya, Bihar, to participate in the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Rajgir 2024. This international tournament will take place from November 11 to 20 in the historic town of Rajgir. The competition features defending champions India, Paris Olympics silver medallists China, and teams from Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Team Leadership and Schedule
Led by captain Salima Tete and vice-captain Navneet Kaur, India will start their campaign against Malaysia on November 11, followed by a match against Korea on November 12. After a rest day, they will face Thailand on November 14, China on November 16, and conclude the pool stage against Japan on November 17.
Preparation and Goals
Captain Salima Tete expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, highlighting their focus on improving performance in the final third of the pitch. She emphasized the importance of taking each match seriously and inspiring young girls in the region.
Coaching and Expectations
This tournament marks the first Asian competition for the team under chief coach Harendra Singh. He thanked the Bihar government and Hockey India for hosting the event and expressed confidence in the team’s improved combinations and decision-making skills.
Advancement and Finals
India aims to secure a top-four finish among the six teams to advance to the semi-finals on November 19, with the final scheduled for November 20.
Doubts Revealed
Asian Champions Trophy -: The Asian Champions Trophy is a hockey tournament where teams from Asia compete to see who is the best. It’s like a big sports competition for countries in Asia.
Bihar -: Bihar is a state in India. It’s located in the eastern part of the country and is known for its rich history and culture.
Rajgir -: Rajgir is a town in Bihar, India. It’s famous for its historical and religious significance, and it’s where the hockey tournament will be held.
Salima Tete -: Salima Tete is the captain of the Indian women’s hockey team. A captain is like the leader of the team who helps guide and support the players.
Harendra Singh -: Harendra Singh is the coach of the Indian women’s hockey team. A coach is someone who trains and helps the team to play better.
Final third performance -: In hockey, the ‘final third’ refers to the last part of the field near the opponent’s goal. Improving performance here means getting better at scoring goals.
Semi-finals -: Semi-finals are the matches before the final. The teams that win in the semi-finals get to play in the final to try and win the tournament.
