Did Manpreet Singh Honor Punjab with India’s Asia Cup Victory Amid Floods?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Asia Cup victory was dedicated to the flood-affected people of Punjab.
- India secured their fourth title in the Asia Cup history.
- Over 300,000 individuals have been displaced due to the floods.
- Manpreet Singh's gesture highlights the connection between sports and community support.
- This win ensures India's place in next year's FIH World Cup.
Rajgir, Sep 8 (NationPress) Midfielder Manpreet Singh of the Indian men's hockey team has dedicated the team's victory in the Asia Cup 2025 to the resilient people of Punjab, who are currently grappling with a severe flood crisis. India claimed the continental championship for the fourth time by defeating South Korea 4-1 in the finals held in Rajgir on Sunday.
Over 300,000 individuals have been displaced, and more than 2,000,000 residents across 2,050 villages are affected in the 23 flood-hit districts, causing significant economic strain on the state.
A total of 176,980.05 hectares of agricultural land have been impacted, and tragically, 48 lives have been lost due to the floods.
“I want to dedicate this victory to the people of Punjab who are enduring these catastrophic floods with extraordinary strength and resilience. This win is for every victim striving to rebuild their lives and for the dedicated volunteers working tirelessly to rescue, support, and rehabilitate those in need. Your spirit is our greatest inspiration, and this victory honors the courage of Punjab,” said former India captain Manpreet.
This victory not only places the Indian men's team at the forefront of Asia but also guarantees direct qualification for next year's FIH World Cup in Belgium and Netherlands. This marks India's fourth triumph in the Asia Cup, adding to previous wins in 2003, 2007, and 2017. South Korea remains the competition's most successful team with five titles collected in 1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022.
India maintained an unbeaten record in the tournament, featuring five wins and a draw. Under Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership, India excelled in the pool stage with three consecutive victories. They continued their impressive form in the Super 4s with dominant wins against Malaysia (4-1) and China (7-0), and settled for a 2-2 draw against South Korea before defeating them in the final.