PM Modi Commends Junior Hockey Team's 'Exceptional Talent and Tenacity' Following Asia Cup Victory

New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his admiration for the Indian men's junior hockey team after their triumph in the Junior Men's Asia Cup.
"I take immense pride in our hockey champions! This is a defining moment for Indian hockey as our Men’s Junior Team has secured the title of the Junior Asia Cup 2024. Their exceptional talent, tenacity, and remarkable teamwork have firmly established this victory in the chronicles of sporting excellence," the Prime Minister shared on X.
"Congratulations to the young champions and my best wishes for their future pursuits," he added.
The Indian junior men's hockey team triumphed over their longstanding rivals Pakistan with a score of 5-3 in a thrilling final of the Men's Junior Asia Cup, successfully defending their title and achieving an impressive fifth championship in the history of this event on Wednesday.
India's previous victories in the tournament occurred in 2023, 2015, 2008, and 2004.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also conveyed his congratulations to the victorious team. "Heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Junior Hockey Team for making history by defeating Pakistan 5-3 in the Men's Junior Asia Cup 2024! All citizens of the nation are proud and thrilled by this remarkable accomplishment. Kudos to every member of Team India! May this winning streak remain unbroken, my best wishes!" he posted on X.
Araijeet Singh Hundal was a standout player, scoring four goals at the 4th, 18th, 47th, and 54th minutes, while Dilraj Singh contributed with a goal at the 19th minute. Captain Shahid Hannan (3') and Sufyan Khan (30', 39') put forth their best efforts to keep Pakistan competitive throughout the match, but their attempts ultimately fell short.
Hockey India has announced a cash reward of Rs 2 lakh for each player and Rs 1 lakh for each support staff member in recognition of their stellar title defense and dominant performances in the Men's Junior Asia Cup.