Saturday, January 31, 2015

Delhi Waveriders to play host to Dabang Mumbai on their home turf today

New Delhi, January 31, 2015: The turf of Delhi gets ready for another thrilling game of hockey as hosts Delhi Waveriders will be at odds with Dabang Mumbai in the ongoing Hero Hockey India League, on 1 February 2015 at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. So far the two clashing teams have not yet registered a win to their name and thus will put in all efforts to defeat the opponent and emerge victorious. 

Sitting at the foot of the points table with 5 points apiece, both Dabang Mumbai and Delhi Waveriders have played three games each, drawing two and losing one, in the League as of yet. With the next game scheduled between the two, the teams will step out on the turf with their best line-up and strategies to take on each other and gain a winning momentum. This is the first time in this season of the League that these two teams will be locking horns and bringing into play the most excellent of their tried and tested strategies and game approaches against each other.

Coached by the very experienced Valentin Altenburg, the newly crafted side Dabang Mumbai has some real star players in its line-up which will allow them to take on their opponent team with much fervour and confidence. 

On the other hand, undeterred by the absence of their Captain – Sardar Singh, Delhi Waveriders will give their finest shot in the impending game with an aim to record a triumph and live up to the expectations of the Coach Cedric D’Souza and their very enthusiastic home crowd. Delhi Waveriders and Dabang Mumbai are ready with their finest hockey, promising to deliver an exciting game tomorrow.

Speaking on the upcoming match, Coach of Delhi Waveriders, Cedric D’Souza said, “This is an important game for us. We have worked on our plans and bettered it for the upcoming matches. The team has also worked on its defence and I am sure we will make a comeback in the next match.”

Commenting on the match, Delhi Waveriders’ Defender Rupinder Pal Singh said, “The next match is going to be very important for us. We have identified gaps in our performance, have worked to rectify them and I am sure we will not duplicate the same mistakes in subsequent games.”


Remarking on the impending clash, Coach of Dabang Mumbai Valentin Altenburg said, “I’m very satisfied on how the whole team works on their action goals. The game against Ranchi was a step in the right direction. Tomorrow we will take the next step. We will play the Dabang style with heart for 60 minutes and then we will see what is on the scoreboard."

Confident ahead of the next match, Dabang Mumbai player Tom Boon said, “We have learnt a lot from our past games and now we are all set for the next match. We have worked on certain areas and will surely give our best to win this one as it is very important one for us. Delhi is a strong team but I am confident of a good show tomorrow.”

HIL Press release

Shiva Keshavan finishes 15th in Nations Cup


Lillehammer, Norway, January 30, 2015: In Luge, the fastest sport on ice, athletes have to tune their senses and overcome the fears of the danger posed by the incredibly high speeds and G-forces while negotiating the course in a highly competitive field.

On Friday, Shiva Keshavan did just that as he brought India to a 15th place finish at the Nations Cup in Lillehammer, Norway. In fact he took it a step further. Shiva had suffered a dangerous crash during the official training in which the runners of his sled were completely shattered at over 120 kmph. It was good fortune that ensured Shiva was unhurt, but he was presented with a unique problem for the second time in his career that he had no sled to race with in Friday’s race.

The last time Shiva was faced with an identical situation was at the 2010 Olympic Games. 5 Supreme court lawyers had donated one lakh rupees each to pay for a new sled, which Shiva competed on for the 2010 Games. This time, without the high profile event of the Olympics around the corner and no media to highlight the issue, Shiva was contemplating returning home without being able to compete. That was not to be. His competitors from Norway, who had the necessary spare parts, in a wonderful gesture of sportsman spirit, gave Shiva the replacements he needed.

Overcoming your fears of speed and G-force to negotiate the Luge run is one thing but coming back from a crash two days before the race to post your personal best time if quite another. That was exactly what Shiva did in the race on Friday. A personal best time of 50.654 second on the Norway track. The result qualifies Shiva for the World Cup that will be held on Sunday, and would be a boost to his morale after the crash.

On the phone from Norway, Shiva was quick to brush aside the accident. ”Never Give In is my motto”, he said, ”I have improved my performance a lot this year thanks to my coach Duncan Kennedy. I am sure the best is yet to come.”

This story talks about the courage and determination of an athlete representing India and also the ideal of sportsman spirit shown by competitors towards each other. It is ironic to know that the government of India refused Shiva’s request for financial support for his equipment and Coach while another nation was so generous in their solidarity to another athlete.

Shiva Keshavan will compete in the World Cup in Lillehammer, Norway on Sundaywhere he will cross the 120 kmph speed once again in search for another personal best time while adapting to the spare parts another national team has provided him.

Press release



Uttar Pradesh Wizards trounce Kalinga Lancers 5-1 in Lucknow


Lucknow, January 29, 2015: Match IX of the ongoing Hero Hockey India League saw an awe-inspiring and spectacular game of hockey between the marvellous home team Uttar Pradesh Wizards and the talented Kalinga Lancers where the hosts defeated the visiting team by 5-1 today, at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Lucknow.

The first quarter of the game saw the home team being awarded with a penalty corner. V R Raghunath took the strike and without leaving any room for mistakes, very efficiently put the ball in the mesh. The ball swiftly passed through the sturdy guards of Kalinga Lancers’ goalkeeper Andrew Charter before touching the nets and announced an early lead of 1-0 for the Uttar Pradesh Wizards over Kalinga Lancers. Despite a number of scoring attempts by both the teams in the subsequent quarter, none could materialize the chances and the second quarter remained goal-less. The half time score was 1-0 with the home team in the lead.

Uttar Pradesh Wizards, with their brilliant man-to-man marking, were all over the Kalinga Lancers’ defence and maintained dominance in the game in the third quarter. Although no goals were scored in the third quarter, with some very good moves and maximum ball possession, the home team made their intentions of winning the game very loud and clear to the opponents.

The fourth quarter began on an exceptional high where Uttar Pradesh Wizards struck thrice within three minutes to soar up the score to 4-0, gaining insuperable lead over the Lancers. The second goal for the Wizards came from the stick of SK Uthappa, immediately followed by another field goal by Bob De Voogd and a quick next by Wouter Jolie. Russel Ford scored the lone goal for Kalinga Lancers in the dying moments of the game. Just before the final whistle, Uttar Pradesh Wizards got a penalty stroke and Jeroen Hertzberger flawlessly converted it into the fifth goal for the hosts, escalating the score to an insurmountable 5-1.

Speaking on today’s game, Coach of Kalinga Lancers, Jude Felix said, “It was a very disappointing performance today. We were in the game till the third quarter of the match but the fourth quarter changed the entire game.  Few of our best defenders came out of the pitch within four – five minutes due to small injuries and that changed the entire scenario. We tried hard to come back in the game but the team was not in sync as there was lack of coordination.”

Remarking on the match, Kalinga Lancers Captain Vickram Kanth said, “We failed to restrict the strikers of the opponent team as our entire team was mostly playing in the midfield. There were opportunities that we missed in the match today. We will try and work on the mistakes and will deliver better results in the next match.”

Ecstatic on today’s win, Coach of Uttar Pradesh Wizards, Roelant Oltmans said, “It was really necessary for us to win the match today and I am glad that we succeeded in doing so. The team had a new captain in this match that turned out to be fruitful and I will keep rotating the captains in the future matches as well. This strategy seems to be working for us. The third edition of HHIL is much more competitive as compared to the last two editions as every team is playing fantastic hockey and I am certain that such tough competition will ultimately help the Indian players to play and improve their skills even further.”

New Captain of Uttar Pradesh Wizards, Wouter Jolie said, “This was a much needed win today as this is our first in the League till now. The team was in good shape today and performed well too. The second goal by the team really boosted the confidence of all of us. During the half time we discussed the strategies and decided to play with coordination along with team spirit and this turned out in a fantastic win today. Though I am satisfied with our performance today, there is still room for improvement.”
  
Hero Goal of the Match – Bob De Voogd.

Man of the Match – Wouter Jolie.

HIL Press release

HIL Disciplinary Committee imposes one-match ban on Mark Knowles

New Delhi, January 29, 2015: The Disciplinary Committee of the Hero Hockey India League last night met to discuss the conduct of Mark Knowles during a match played on 26th January 2015 between Jaypee Punjab Warriors and Uttar Pradesh Wizards and found him to have breached the HHIL Code of Conduct. He was found using abusive language against the opponent player and the same was found in video and audio recording and even acknowledged by Mark. This results in Mark getting one match suspension and will have to sit out of the match against Delhi Waveriders.

HIL Press release

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Ranchi Rays hold Dabang Mumbai to a 2-2 draw at the Hero Hockey India League

Ranchi, 28 January 2015: Continuing the excitement of Hero Hockey India League, the crowd at Ranchi as well as the hockey fans across India witnessed yet another electrifying and staggering hockey at the Ranchi stadium today. With the crowd support behind Ranchi Rays, the team played with an aim to register their second win of the League while the visiting Dabang Mumbai team played to claim 5 full points. But what was witnessed an exciting match and yet another draw and with both the teams registering their second draw in the League. While Dabang Mumbai started the game by scoring quick scored 2 goals in the first quarter itself leaving the Ranchi home crowd silent, Ranchi Rays from the second quarter ensured that they leave no stone unturned to change the tables. The nail biting finish finally saw Ranchi Rays ensuring that Dabang Mumbai do not leave the field with a win and the game was drawn at 2-2.

The first quarter saw both teams looking at creating opportunities for themselves by attacking each other’s D. While both teams had almost equal possession of the ball in the initial ten minutes, the first goal finally came in the 12th minute. The breakthrough came for Dabang Mumbai when Harmanpreet Singh from the right wing passed the ball to Arjun Halappa standing right in front of the goal post. He further did no mistake in hitting the ball hard towards the goal and which was beautifully touched by Glen Turner ensuring the ball reached the net leaving the hosts stunned. With the score at 1-0 and Dabang Mumbai leading, within 3 minutes and in the 15thminute it was Glen Turner who from the left flank passed the ball to the unmarked Santa Singh standing in front of goal post and the composed 18 year old finished it coolly ensuring that he scores the second one for his team. With the scorecard at 2-0, in the dying seconds of the first quarter Ranchi Rays got its first penalty corner and a chance to close the goal gap. It was Adrian Austin who was under the test and was to be seen if he could stop the goal. But unfortunately for Ranchi they could not convert the goal and Dabang Mumbai lead the game 2-0 at the end of the quarter.

The second quarter started with Ranchi Rays starting the session with clear determination to come back into the game. Without wasting any time Ranchi attacked the D of Dabang Mumbai and seamless passes in the opponents D allowed the 21 year old Daniel Beale to score a back handed field goal for his team, taking the score to 1-2. Post that while Ranchi Rays created many opportunities to score but were unable to net the ball. The first half ended with Dabang Mumbai still leading the game by 2-1.

The third quarter started with the teams high on momentum. Five minutes into the 3rd quarter, Ranchi Rays claimed a penalty corner putting the young Adrian again on the test. Ashely Jackson taking the penalty corner flicked hard but was wide of the goal, hence loosing the opportunity to equalize. Within a minute and in the 37thminute, Ranchi Rays was awarded with another penalty corner and this time Ashley did no mistake in converting and ensuring that Ranchi Rays equalised. With the score tied at 2-2, both teams knew it would be anyone’s game from here. While both teams attacked, but were unable to score any further goal and the third quarter ended with 2-2 on the board.

With 15 minutes to go in the fourth quarter and everything to play for, both teams looked completely determined to win. Four minutes into the fourth quarter Mandeep Singh made a perfect pass from the right flank but unfortunately the ball did not find any of the Ranchi Rays player to complete the touch and the goal.  With five minutes left in the game, Floris Evers had a chance to score the third goal for the team, but the alert Lovell Tyler ensured that the ball didn’t go past him into the goal. With just 2 minutes left in the game, Ranchi Rays again had a chance through Mandeep Singh but was yet again saved by the Mumbai goalie leaving the hosts frustrated. The match ended with both team settling for a draw, 2-2.

Speaking post the draw Head Coach Valentin Altenburg said “We were leading the game and had a good chance to finish the game with a win. We started well and scored two back to back goals. They came back strongly and left us surprised. We continued our aggressive game but we cannot do away with the fact they have an experienced defence. Though we lost the match but I am happy and satisfied with the way the boys performed. Overall the game was competitive and we enjoyed watching the match”.

Commenting on the draw, Head Coach Harendra Singh, Ranchi rays said “It was a lack of alertness from the team in the first quarter and which led to us conceding two quick goals. But we came back strongly and which is the strength of our team to bounce back. We will work on our mental alertness and ensure we do not give away easy goals. The league is still open and we can judge a team after 6 matches and I am happy with the team’s performance. We will work on the loopholes that came out of today’s match”.

Hero Goal of the Match – Ashley Jackson, Ranchi Rays
Man of the Match – Ashley Jackson, Ranchi Rays

HIL Press release


Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Ranchi Rays and Delhi Waveriders settle for a 2-2 draw



Ranchi, January 26, 2015: An action packed match played between Ranchi Rays and Delhi Waveriders in the 3rd edition of the Hero Hockey India League today at Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, concluded with a draw at 2-2.

The first half of the match saw some remarkable skills from the Delhi Waveriders’ clan as Akashdeep Singh was seen dribbling his way into the Ranchi Rays’ D, beating the defenders and the goalkeeper and pierced in a dramatic field goal, giving Delhi Waveriders a head start in the match by 1-0 as early as the third minute of the game itself. 

Though the ball possession rate was dominated by the Ranchi Rays, but the team failed to convert any opportunities in the first quarter.

The second half of the match witnessed some excellent attacks and counter-attacks by both Ranchi Rays and Delhi Waveriders but the defence line-up pulled off a better show for both the teams by restricting each other from doing any damage. Delhi Waveriders secured three back to back penalty corner opportunities. While they failed in converting the first two, Delhi Waveriders’ Danish Mujtaba fired in the third penalty corner as a rebound shot and helped the team take the lead to 2-0 in the game. Ranchi Rays made a comeback with the help of Nick Budgeon, when he perfectly converted a penalty corner in the 28th minute of the game and reduced the goal’s margin to 2-1.

In the third quarter of the match, both the teams were seen carefully taking the game ahead for the first four minutes of the quarter. Home team Ranchi Rays got back into the game when Mandeep Singh sneaked his way into the Delhi Waveriders’ defence area and flicked in a field goal in the 35th minute to level the scores with the visiting team at 2-2. 

Both Ranchi Rays and Delhi Waveriders restricted each from scoring any further goals and the scoreboard saw a tie at 2-2 by the end of the third quarter.

The fourth quarter of the match witnessed the best of the defence line-up from both Delhi Waveriders and Ranchi Rays as the aggressive attacking spree from both the clans was efficiently tackled at their respective skillful defence line-up. As both the teams struggled hard to make the break-through and claim the match with a win, the game was concluded at a 2-2 draw.

Speaking on the team’s performance, Ranchi Rays’ Head Coach Harendra Singh said, “I congratulate my team for creating a number of chances in this match. The team played in a very coordinated manner and there was total teamwork on the field. Going forward from here, our strategies will be similar to what we played in the last quarter of this match today.”

Speaking on the match, Ranchi Rays’ Captain Ashley Jackson said, “In this game, we got a lot of opportunities compared to the previous matches in the Hero HIL 2015. This is an excellent development for our team’s point of view. Now, we will now look at improving our conversation rate to score more goals in our upcoming matches.”

Speaking on the draw, Head Coach Cedric D’Souza of Delhi Waveriders said, “The team was in a defensive mode in the last two quarters of the match. We gave space to the opponents and got punished. Our team needs to be more patient and we will work on this weakness. Ranchi Rays played very well and they deserve more wins in the league.”

Speaking after the match, Delhi Waveriders’ Captain Sardar Singh said,“We started well but became bit defensive in the last two quarters of the match, which gave the opponents a better opening. We need to work on this and tighten our attack, so that our passes are more accurate.”

HIL Press release and photographs


Jaypee Punjab Warriors earn a hard fought win against Uttar Pradesh Wizards 3-2

Mohali, January 26, 2015: With a remarkable victory in the last match against Kalinga Lancers, host Jaypee Punjab Warriors continued their impressive run in the third edition of Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) and drubbed Uttar Pradesh Wizards 3-2 at the Hockey Stadium in Mohali today.

Keeping alive the hopes of the home fans, Jaypee Punjab Warriors were by far the better side on display as they dominated the match from the beginning to the end.

The Uttar Pradesh Wizards seized the early initiative and opened the scoring in the 7th minute through VR Raghunath, who successfully converted the penalty corner with a powerful flick to get his first goal of this edition. The battle of the penalty corners was on, when Jaypee Punjab Warriors’s Varun Kumar went down hard and sneaked in a goal which came through the penalty corner in the 12th minute, equalizing the score by 1-1 by the end of the first quarter.

Both the teams managed hard to keep the possession of the ball with them trying to take hold of the opportunities that came their way. 

Moving ahead in the game, it was SV Sunil of Jaypee Punjab Warriors who doubled the lead by 2-1 and ducked into the opponent’s D in the 28th minute. With the end of the second quarter, the Jaypee Punjab Warriors was leading by 2-1 against Uttar Pradesh Wizards.

At the change of ends, the Wizards adopted an aggressive approach and created a few bright openings but the Warriors’ defence led by Captain Jamie Dwyer stood like a rock to thwart any danger.  The third quarter of the game witnessed a lot of action and both the teams showcased brilliant stick work managing to create a space in each other’s D.

Without any mistake, Sandeep Singh flicked the ball inside the net and got his fourth goal of the Hero Hockey India 2015 through a penalty corner conversion in the 42nd minute. In the midst of absorbing the pressure of Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ high scoring, Uttar Pradesh Wizards went into the fourth quarter trailing by 1-3.

While the Warriors seemed to be more physically and mentally robust as the game neared the end, Wizards did not give up hope and produced a spirited fight back when VR Raghunath surged ahead and scored from a penalty corner in the 53rd minute, taking the scores to 3-2.

In the dying minutes of the game, Uttar Pradesh Wizards kept their game alive as they got several opportunities of equalizing the scores, but unfortunately failed to convert any opportunity. It was Jaypee Punjab Warriors who effectively managed to pocket the contest in their favour and won against Uttar Pradesh Warriors with 3-2 on the score board.

Speaking post the second consecutive win Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ Captain Jamie Dwyer said, "We are happy that we bagged yet another win today. I will rate our first and the last quarter as the ones which helped us with this win. In the second and third quarter we missed many opportunities and so the opponents missed a number of passes. Our target for the next match is to get our defence circle stronger and figure out more scoring opportunities and converting them."

Speaking post the loss, Uttar Pradesh Wizards’ Captain VR Raghunath said, "We were unlucky today. I think we finished badly and missed opportunities that came our way. It was a tough match today and we made a lot of mistakes. Our defence circle needs to be more powerful. From next match we will aim at putting pressure on the opponents and our forwards will have to score along with converting the penalty corners. I am happy with the penalty corner conversion today as converted 2 out of the 4 that we go."

Hero Goal of the Match – SV Sunil (Jaypee Punjab Warriors)
Man of the Match – Jaap Stockman (Jaypee Punjab Warriors)

HIL Press release


Monday, January 26, 2015

Sardar Singh and Saba Anjum to be conferred with the Padma Shri Award

New Delhi, 26 January 2015: Bringing another laurel to Indian hockey, India Men Hockey Team captain Sardar Singh as well as the former captain for the India Women Team, Saba Anjum will be conferred with one of the most prestigious national honours – Padma Shri Award – by the Government of India. Both Sardar as well as Saba Anjum were even conferred with the Arjuna Award in 2012 and 2013 respectively. Both the awardees have to their credit of brining laurels to the country for their contribution on the field and even guiding their teams to victories.

The 28-year-old midfielder Sardar has played a pivotal role for India and his skilful game which has even inspired the new generation of hockey players across the world. Sardar made his debut for the senior team against Pakistan in 2006 and since then he has played more than 200 international matches and has successfully contributed towards Indian hockey. Sardar is also the most sought player in the prestigious Hockey India League.

Saba on the other hand was one of the most prominent forwards and represented India during the Asian Games in 2002, Asia Cup in 2004, Commonwealth Games  in 2002 and 2006, and  Junior World Cup in 2001. Saba even had been conferred with the Chhattisgarh's top Gundadhur sports award for bring honour to her state in the field of sports.

Congratulating both of them, Dr. Narinder Dhruv Batra, President, Hockey India said, “Hockey India is extremely delighted for both Sardar Singh as well as Saba Anjum for being conferred with the Padma Shri Award. Since his debut, Sardar has brought many laurels to the team and Indian Hockey. As a a captain, he is a hero and a mentor to whom young players look upto and learn the tricks of the game. Hockey India takes utmost pride in congratulating Sardar and wishes him all the best for the upcoming tournaments and hope to see him bringing more laurels for Team India and thereby continues to make the country proud of him.
As for Saba she was once regarded as one of the most prominent forward in the world of Hockey and seeing her play on the field many girls picked up the hockey stick. She has always made me proud with hey play and I am happy her efforts on the field have found recognition through this prestigious award.”

A delighted and proud captain Sardar Singh said, “Receiving the Padma Shri Award is a great honour for me and I would take this opportunity to thank Hockey India for giving me the support which boosted my morale and that shows on the field. Also, credit of my success goes to the coaches who have mentored and guided me during my journey in hockey. I am proud to have been conferred with this award and will work harder to get more laurels for Team India.”

A very happy Saba Anjum said “I am honoured today for being chosen for this prestigious award. I have no word to show my happiness but I would like to thank the Government of India for recognizing my efforts, Hockey India and my family for all their support”.

Sardar was appointed as the captain of the Indian hockey team in 2008 for the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup at the age of 22 years where India finished 2nd in the tournament and bagged the Silver medal. In 2010, Sardar Singh was nominated for the FIH All-Star team being the sole Indian to get the honour and a feat that was repeated again in 2012. In 2014, Sardar led India to a Silver medal finish in the 2014 Commonwealth Games at Glasgow and in the same year, Sardar steered his team to win the Incheon Asian Games Gold beating Pakistan in a highly-tensed finale and this feat of winning the Gold was achieved by the Indian team after 16 years. In the same year the India Hockey Team even beat Australia in a Test Series at home and also finished at a respectable fourth position in the Hero Men’s Champions Trophy 2014.

In the 15 year long international career, Saba has to her credit of being a part of the team which won the bronze at 2006 Doha Asian Games. She is also known for striking six goals including the winning one in the final of Shastri Cup 2007 and went on to being the player of the tournament in the series.

HI Press release


Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Kalinga Lancers by 4-2 to register their first win




Mohali, January 25, 2015: Taking their performance a notch higher in the ongoing Hero Hockey India League 2015, Jaypee Punjab Warriors drubbed Kalinga Lancers by 4-2 and secured their first win the 3rd edition of the Hero Hockey India League at their home turf in Mohali at the International Hockey Stadium, today.

Giving a speedy start to the game, both Kalinga Lancers and Jaypee Punjab Warriors were seen in an attacking mode, trying to penetrate each other’s D and taking the lead in the game from the first quarter itself. It was only in the 8th minute of the game when Lalit Upadhyay of Kalinga Lancers made a break-through with the help of a counter attack and sliced in a field goal beating Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ Jaap Stockmann and helping Kalinga Lancers to take the early lead in the game over the home team.

The second quarter of the game saw Jaypee Punjab Warriors playing even more aggressive game in order to level to scores with the visiting team. Both Kalinga Lancers and Jaypee Punjab Warriors managed to secure a penalty corner each, but both failed to convert their respective opportunities into a goal. It was only when the Jaypee Punjab Warriors secured a second penalty corner opportunity in the second quarter of the game itself, Jamie Dwyer made no mistakes in converting it into a goal and levelled the scores with Kalinga Lancers. Continuing the dominating spree in the game now, Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ Jamie Dwyer stroked-in a magnificent field goal in the 28th minute and snatched away the lead by 2-1 over Kalinga Lancers, just before the half time whistle.

Where both the teams kept their speedy and attacking form upbeat, even in the quarter of the match, their respective defence line-up was also seen getting stronger with every minute. Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ drag-flicker Sandeep Singh opened his goal account for the day in the third quarter itself when he skilfully converted a penalty corner and helped the team take the lead further ahead by 3-1. Kalinga Lancers’ repeated efforts to reduce the score margin, failed to yield results for the team in the third quarter.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors were seen in full swing in the last quarter of the match as well, as the home team was in no mood to let the Kalinga Lancers do any damage. Dharamvir Singh added another goal to Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ account when he carved his way out and pierced in a field goal beating Kalinga Lancers’ goalkeeper in the 50th minute and taking the lead to 4-1. Kalinga Lancers picked up pace and were seen keeping the game alive when Gurjinder Singh made no mistakes in converting a penalty corner and reducing the score to 4-2. Kalinga Lancers were restricted from doing any further damage as the Jaypee Punjab Warriors registered their first win in the Hero Hockey India League 2015 at their home turf.

Speaking on today's performance Captain and Man-of-the-Match Jamie Dwyer of Jaypee Punjab Warriors said, "We are coming out good but we need to further improve ourselves. We are working on our defence and that is an area we are focussing the most during our practice. Sandeep and Chris are flicking good during practice sessions and they need to start incorporating during play. Playing at your home turf or away does not matter and we focus on winning. The aim is to reach the semi-finals and I think our 100% best will come out in the last two matches of the League."

Speaking post their impressive win, Dharamvir Singh of Jaypee Punjab Warriors said, "We came back well in the match post Kalinga Lancers’ initial goal today. Jamie's back to back goals boosted everyone’s morale and we controlled the match thereafter. We are looking forward to our match tomorrowand the aim is to win yet again."

Speaking post their loss, Kalinga Lancers’ Head Coach Jude Felix said,"Punjab is one of the top teams of the League as well as tough one and we had a good match with them today. There were patches where the team did not perform well but if I have to rate the performance of the team, they are improving with every match and practice sessions.”

Speaking after the match, Captain Vickram Kanth of Kalinga Lancers said, "It was a new learning today post our last match and we will take this learning ahead in our next match. The aim is to grow from here and continue our good form in league."

Hero Goal of the Match – Dharamvir Singh (Jaypee Punjab Warriors)
Man of the Match – Jamie Dwyer of (Jaypee Punjab Warriors)

HIL Press release


Sunday, January 25, 2015

Confident Uttar Pradesh Wizards to be at odds with hosts Jaypee Punjab Warriors at Mohali

Mohali, January 25, 2015: As the excitement and thrill of the Hero Hockey India League 2015 continues to rise sky-high, the endowed players of Uttar Pradesh Wizards are all geared up to face the confident Jaypee Punjab Warriors on their home turf at Hockey Stadium, Mohali on 26 January 2015. In their opening matches, where Uttar Pradesh Wizards met Delhi Waveriders and Jaypee Punjab Warriors played against Dabang Mumbai, both the teams had their game end in a draw, splitting the points with their respective opponents.

In the slated game tomorrow, both Uttar Pradesh Wizards and Jaypee Punjab Warriors will be playing to their best, attacking the opponents’ goalpost while defending their own, to register a win to their name and ascend in the pool standings. Being led by the extremely talented Indian defender- V R Raghunath, the visiting team has already chalked out their game plan and put the strategies in place for the impending clash. With PR Sreejesh under the bar and Ramandeep holding up the team’s attack and scoring,

Nikkin and Nithin will continue to strengthen the forward line for the Wizards. 
With a near-perfect combination of new and tried line of attack and game approach,
Jaypee Punjab Warriors will step out onto the turf with full confidence and determination to not give away any further points to the opposite team. The home team’s poise will also be shored up by the hockey fans and followers present at the stadium to cheer for their side. While Captain Jamie Dwyer will look up to S V Sunil and Affan Yousuf to fortify the team’s forward, Gaganpreet Singh and Sandeep Singh will be aiming at scoring as many goals as possible to lead the Warriors to victory.

Speaking on tomorrow’s match, Captain of Jaypee Punjab Warriors, Jamie Dwyer said, “We are a strong team with best of the best players in our line-up and are looking to bring into play our strengths. Everybody in the team has been giving their 100 per cent and I look forward to continued contribution from each member in the approaching matches as well. Uttar Pradesh Wizards is a strong side and the game is definitely going to be tough. We will play to our best in order to win this match and hope will not disappoint the crowd.”

On the upcoming match against Uttar Pradesh Wizards, Coach of Jaypee Punjab Warriors, Barry Dancer said, “Every game at this point of time is crucial for us and we are aiming at improving our performance with every match.  We have the benefit of the home ground and we look at materializing this opportunity for our good. The team is fit and optimistic and I am hopeful of a good game for us tomorrow.”

Remarking on their second game of the League, Captain of Uttar Pradesh Wizards, V R Raghunath said, “This game is going to be really important for us as we aim at winning this game and go up on the points table. We had a draw in the last game against Delhi Waveriders but the team showcased a brilliant performance overall. I expect the same level of game from the team this time too and looking forward to winning this one against the Punjab Warriors.”

Commenting on the impending match, Coach of Uttar Pradesh Wizards, Roelant Oltmans said, “The team is in good shape and ready to take on the opponents. The boys performed really well in the last match and I am anticipating a similar game from the team this time too. Ramandeep and Jeroen Hertzberger are at their best at this point of time and infringing Sreejesh’s guard at the nets will be a tough task for the opposite team.”

HIL Press release


Ranchi Rays to meet Delhi Waveriders today

Ranchi, January 25, 2015: Post their electrifying win yesterday over Dabang Mumbai, Ranchi Rays looks to be finding its form in the ongoing 3rd edition of the Hero Hockey India League. While on the other hand post their 2-2 draw against Uttar Pradesh Wizards in Lucknow, the Sardar Singh led team still looks confident of stamping their dominance in the League. With both the teams looking at a win tomorrow it will yet again be an exciting clash in the League which has been witnessing each team giving their best and showcasing that they are no less than the other.

Post losing their inaugural match against Kalinga Lancers, Ranchi Rays struck hold against Dabang Mumbai yesterday. Trailing by 0-1 in the third quarter, Ranchi Rays came back strong by winning the match 2-1 leaving the hosts stunned. What turned the tables in their favor were Barry’s stunning field goals which gave no chance to Dabang Mumbai’s David Harte to stop the ball going past him. With a win in their kitty Ashley Jackson’s team would look at registering their second win against the Defending Champions.

On the other hand with a draw in their game against Uttar Pradesh Wizards, Sardar Singh and team would look at opening their winning account. While being aware that they are just one game old, they will not wait further to get their winning streak going. Also they are conscious that their defence has to come out good to stop Barry Middleton, Manpreet Singh and Ashley Jackson’s seamless coordination and the ability to get past the opponents’ defence and score goals.

Speaking on the match tomorrow Sardar Singh, Captain Delhi Waveriders said, “Our team is improving very well under our Head Coach Cedric D'Souza and we will step on the field for tomorrow's match with a positive mindset. The pre-HIL coaching camp was very helpful for us and we have got enough time to build up our team. We worked on various strategies in the camp and planned few things for all the upcoming matches. We are looking forward to tomorrow's match and finish the game on a winning conclusion.” 

Speaking on the clash tomorrow Cedric D’Souza, Head Coach of Delhi Waveriders said, “After our last match draw against UP Wizards, we are in better shape and have improved from our previous game. We are ready fortomorrow's match and we will play our natural game keeping few strategies in our mind. We have worked on a number of things in today's practice session and as all the teams have the best players, we are not taking any team lightly. The crowd here is very passionate about hockey and I am looking forward totomorrow's match in front of a cheering crowd.”    

Speaking on the all important match Ashley Jackson, Captain Ranchi Rays said, “It was great to get our first win of the competition and the team is really happy with the improved performance from our first game. The team’s confidence level is high for tomorrow’s match and we look forward to pocket second win against Delhi Waveriders. We are excited to be heading back to play in front of our home fans in Ranchi tomorrow.”

Speaking ahead of the match tomorrow Harendra Singh, Head Coach Ranchi Rays said, “Ranchi Rays are playing their first home match in this season of Hockey India League; therefore we are looking forward for a well contested match on home turf tomorrow. Both the teams are well balanced which we witnessed in our last outing at Mumbai and we expect same kind of keen contest playing against Delhi Waveriders. Being Mahi's home town I am sure large number of people will come to support their favorite star’s team.”


Speaking ahead of the first match on their homeground Manpreet Singh of Ranchi Rays said, “I am very pleased with the way our team performed yesterday and got our first win against Dabang Mumbai. This win has boosted our confidence and we will make every effort to convert all the scoring opportunities into goals. We will be looking ahead to give a confident performance against the Defending Champions, Delhi Waveriders. Moreover, we will not let pressure take over us and we will play to the best of our capabilities in front of our home crowd tomorrow.”

HIL Press release

Saturday, January 24, 2015

High on confidence, Kalinga Lancers ready to take on Jaypee Punjab Warriors

Mohali, January 24, 2015: With the Hero Hockey India League stepping in to its fourth day tomorrow, the talented bunch of Kalinga Lancers are all set to play against the enthusiastic home team – Jaypee Punjab Warriors at the Hockey Stadium, Mohali. While the Lancers are upbeat after their early win against the Ranchi Rays, the hosts will be looking forward to their first win post a draw against Dabang Mumbai in their opening match yesterday.

Led by the very efficient Captain – Jamie Dwyer, Barry Dancer coached team Jaypee Punjab Warriors will bring the best tricks of the trade into play when they step out on the turf to face the Kalinga Lancers, tomorrow. 

With Jaap Stockmann guarding the nets for them, the team will be looking at creating maximum scoring opportunities and increase goal conversion rate to register their first win in the League. Playing their first match against Dabang Mumbai yesterday and trailing by 0 goal to 1 till half time, Jaypee Punjab Warriors came back strong in the third quarter and turned the tables in their favour. With Jaap’s heroic saves at the net and with Jamie holding the ball and zipping past to the opponents D, the team ensured that the match was electrifying and a real treat for the spectators. The team tomorrow will yet again gear up to showcase similar play against the Lancers.

Unfazed by the crowd support that the home-team will enjoy, the Kalinga Lancers will walk onto the turf in a calm and poised manner, all geared up to showcase their best game of hockey and record their second consecutive triumph in the League. Under the proficient Captaincy of Vickram Kanth, post their inaugural win on the League, the Lancers are by now in no doubt of putting-up a brilliant show in the upcoming match against the Jaypee Punjab Warriors. 

Showcasing great play in their opening match where they stunned Ranchi Rays with their play, Vickram Kanth led Kalinga Lancers will be looking at testing themselves against a very strong team. While all eyes will again be on the young Gurjinder Singh to convert the penalty corners for his team, Lucas and Ryan will aim to penetrate the D of the opponents and get the ball past the goalkeeper- Jaap Stockmann.

Speaking on the upcoming match, Head Coach of Kalinga Lancers, Jude Felix said, “According to me Jaypee Punjab Warriors is the strongest team in the League. While they have not won the League till now, but we still can’t take away the fact that they have some of the best players in their squad. Keeping this in mind for tomorrow we have to give our best and each one in the Kalinga Lancers team has to come forward and contribute. Gurjinder Singh, Lucas Villa, Ryan Archibald, Vickram Kanth - all have to stand up and contribute and ensure we end the match tomorrow on a winning note.”

Confident of a good show tomorrow, Head Coach of Jaypee Punjab Warriors, Barry Dancer said, “We are looking at bettering ourselves for the match tomorrow and ensure that we have control over their players. We have to adjust and respond better against the opposition and that is the challenge for our team.  The objective from here is to better ourselves. Tomorrow’s match is crucial as they already have a win in their kitty, but we are confident that we will turn the game in our favor.”

Remarking on the impending game, Captain of Jaypee Punjab Warriors, Jamie Dwyer said, “We have to concentrate every second and we can’t relax at all either on the first minute or the last minute of the match. This cost us 3 points in the last match yesterday. Sandeep is flicking good along with Christopher. He flicks and defends well and is doing a good job for the team and we are looking at him contributing in the same manner in the forthcoming matches.”

HIL Press release


Hockey India launches HHIL mobile application on Android and iOS platforms

New Delhi, January 24, 2015: To cater to the escalating excitement of the Hero Hockey India League 2015 among its fans and followers, Hockey India today launched its first HHIL mobile application on Android and iOS platform. Taking Hockey India’s endeavour to promote Hockey in the country to a new pinnacle, the HHIL mobile application will allow its users to stay conversant with the game anytime, anywhere on their Android and iOS devices.

The application boasts of a ‘Live match feed’ category where the users can know all about the ongoing match of the League on the go, as and when required. With a user friendly interface, the HHIL mobile application envelopes all necessary information regarding the impending League, ranging from overall match schedules to specific match venues and summary of the teams to player profiles.

Speaking on the launch of the app, Dr Narinder Batra, Chairman Hockey India League said, “These days everyone wants to be in the hook of things while on the move and the app of Hockey India League is designed to meet this demand of smart-phone users. For the young hockey fans that are always hooked-on to their mobile devices, this application will help them stay up-to-date with the every game in the League whenever and wherever they desire, thus making sure they never miss the excitement of the game even when they are travelling or are at work. With this, we aim to take the popularity of the game to newer heights.”

The app is available for download on Android and iOS devices.

HIL Press release

Chikkarangappa, Angad Cheema & Abhijit Singh Chadha earn their maiden Asian Tour cards

Hua Hin, Thailand, January 24, 2015: Indian youngsters Chikkarangappa, Angad Cheema and Abhijit Singh Chadha finished inside the top-40 after the final round of the Asian Tour Qualifying School Final Stage and thus earned their maiden Asian Tour cards. Himmat Singh Rai, a former winner on the Asian Tour, also regained his card after finishing inside the top-40.

Chikkarangappa (66-66-76-68), a winner on the Asian Development Tour in 2014, finished as the highest-placed Indian at the event as he claimed fourth position at nine-under-276. The Bangalorean, who shot a creditable three-under-68 on Saturday, finished six shots behind the winner Daniel Chopra of Sweden.

Chikka, who finished second on the PGTI's Rolex Rankings in 2013 and 2014, made four birdies and a bogey in his final round.

Chandigarh lad Angad Cheema (69-71-68-72) earned his place in Asia's premier tour after a tied 12th finish at five-under-280 along with Delhi-based Himmat Singh Rai (70-67-71-72) 

Abhijit Singh Chadha (71-69-73-71), another Chandigarh golfer, also managed to progress to the Asian Tour thanks to his tied 37th finish at one-under-284. The top 47 players earned their full cards for the 2015 Asian Tour season as 11 players were in tied 37th after the final round.

Interestingly, India's three new entrants on the Asian Tour, Chikka, Cheema and Chadha, are all below the age of 25. The three golfers are also tournament winners on the PGTI.


The three Indians who finished outside the top-40 and thus missed their cards were Amardip Sinh Malik (two-over-287) in tied 62nd place, Khalin Joshi (four-over-289) in tied 77th and C Muniyappa (five-over-290) in tied 84th place.

PGTI Press release

Uttar Pradesh Wizards hold Delhi Waveriders 2-2




Lucknow, January 23, 2015: On the second day of the Hero Hockey India League 2015, the turf of Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in Lucknow witnessed a high voltage, neck-to-neck clash between the home team Uttar Pradesh Wizards and the Defending Champions Delhi Waveriders where the game ended in a draw, with a score of 2-2, confirming that the Uttar Pradesh Wizards’ team, this year, is here with a determination to give a tough fight to their opponents in the League.

After a goalless first quarter, the opening goal of the match was scored in the second quarter when Uttar Pradesh Wizards were awarded a penalty stroke and Jeroen Hertzberger made the most out of the opportunity as he successfully put the ball in the net. This gave the home team a much needed lead of 1-0 over Delhi Waveriders. 

Not deterred by this pressure, Delhi Waveriders made a rapid comeback as Steven Edwards soon scored a leveller in the same quarter, breaching the sturdy guard of goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. Despite a number of attempts by both the teams, no further goals were scored as the half time closed in with a levelled score of 1-1 on the scoreboard.

Bringing a luminous stick work into play, the Defending Champions – Delhi Waveriders opened the third quarter with swift attacks while ensuring the ball remains in their possession but unfortunately the third quarter failed to yield results in either of the team’s favour. In the fourth quarter, Delhi Waveriders took lead in the game when Talwinder Singh sliced-in a beautiful field goal handing over the lead to the defending champions. Unfazed by this, the hosts managed to the level the score with another field goal that came from the stick of Ramandeep Singh of Uttar Pradesh Wizards.

Delhi Waveriders were awarded a penalty corner in the dying minutes of the match but they could not materialize the chance. At the blow of the final whistle, the score board showed an equivalent score of 2-2, declaring a draw for the teams.

Speaking on today’s match, Head Coach of Delhi Waveriders Cedric D’Souza said, “Every team is strong and with new players coming in they are getting stronger. It was a good game with fair result for both the teams.”

Commenting on the team’s performance, Delhi Waveriders Captain Sardar Singh said, “Delhi Waveriders have performed really well in the last two editions of the League and we want to continue the same spirit. We made a good start today but because of a few mistakes the match ended in a draw. We will work on our mistakes and perform better in the next match.”

Remarking on the day’s game, Captain of Uttar Pradesh Wizards, V R Raghunath said, “We wanted to win the game but couldn’t do that. We will surely rectify our loopholes. The start today was good but it was tough to play against the Champions. There was a bit of pressure but we eventually managed to tackle it.”
Content with his team’s show, Head Coach of Uttar Pradesh Roelant Oltmans said, “This is a new team so the competition was tough and we had to give our best performance against the Champions. Also, the pitch was difficult to play. Overall it was a good performance in terms of being the first match.”

Hero Goal of the Match - Talwinder Singh of Delhi Waveriders. Received a cheque of Rs 25,000/- from Mr Ajit Pal Singh
Airtel Golden Goal – Iftikhar Ahmed, Aditya Yadav, Mohammed Sadiq, Shubham Raj – Received a cheque of Rs 10,000/- each from Mr Devesh Chauhan

Man of the Match - Ramandeep Singh of Uttar Pradesh Wizards. Received a cheque of Rs 25,000/- from Mr O.P. Srivastava

HIL Press release

Ranchi Rays gear up for their clash against Dabang Mumbai

Mumbai, January 23, 2015: Ranchi Rays and newly formed Dabang Mumbai are gearing up to face each tomorrow at the latter’s home ground in the pool stage of the Hero Hockey India League. While Ranchi Rays played its first match against Kalinga Lancers yesterday which was also the inaugural match of the League, Dabang Mumbai will play their second match against Ranchi Rays post facing Jaypee Punjab Warriors today at Mumbai.

Playing their first match yesterday, the Ashley Jackson led Ranchi Rays lost their match against the boys of Jude Felix. The key take away from the match against Kalinga Lancers was Ashley Jackson’s 2 penalty corner conversions and Barry Middleton’s beautifully penetrated field goal.

Going into their second match, Ranchi Rays will be looking at their defence coming out good and all will depend on Birendra Lakra, Amit Rohidas alongwith Goalkeeper Lovell Tyler and Sushant Tirkey to ensure that the opponents forwards are kept at bay and do not find it easy to penetrate the D of Ranchi Rays.
Speaking on tomorrow’s match against Dabang Mumbai, Ranchi Rays Coach Harendra Singh said, “I am looking forward totomorrow's match against Dabang Mumbai. These are two new franchisees who want to start on a good note. There are exciting players in both sides and whoever holds their nerves better will get fruitful result."

Commenting on tomorrow’s clash, Captain Ashley Jackson, Ranchi Rays said, “It was fun to play the opening game but unfortunately not the result we wanted. Today we have reached Mumbai where hopefully we can get our first win of HIL tomorrow night.”


Ravinder Tavel wins PGTI Qualifying School 2015 after playoff victory over Trishul Chinappa

Eagleton – The Golf Resort, Bangalore, January 23, 2015: Ravinder Tavel (69-72-69-70) of Chandimandir, Haryana, prevailed in a playoff against Bangalore’s Trishul Chinappa (75-69-69-67) to win the PGTI’s Final Qualifying Stage for the 2015 season being held at Eagleton - The Golf Resort near Bangalore. Tavel defeated Chinappa on the second playoff hole after the two golfers ended the regulation 72 holes with matching totals of eight-under-280.

At the end of round four, the top 38 players earned their cards for the 2015 PGTI season as five players were tied in 34th place at seven-over-295.

Ravinder Tavel, who started the day two shots off the lead in joint second, emerged a major contender for the title after a solid front-nine where he made three birdies and a lone bogey. The 21-year-old from the SEPTA Golf Course in Chandimandir, a town on the outskirts of Chandigarh, then had a mixed back-nine as he made three birdies and an equal number of bogeys. Tavel finally sealed the affair against Trishul Chinappa, who shot the day’s best of 67, on the second playoff hole. Ravinder sank a seven feet par putt to win the event even as Chinappa missed a short par putt.

Tavel, who played his first full season on the PGTI in 2014, said, “I had a good start with some long conversions on the front-nine. However, the back-nine wasn’t that great as I missed some short putts to drop bogeys. I was quite confident going into the playoff even though Trishul had shot a much better score than me in regulation play. I held my nerve to hole a tricky par putt on the second playoff hole to seal the win.”

He added, “I’m delighted with this effort. It gives me the self-belief to do well in the 2015 PGTI season. Now that I’m in the top 100 of the tour, I will get more playing opportunities and can thus improve my game. I’ve worked really hard to get here. I would like to thank my coach Mr. Rampal for helping me with my game and Maj. Gen. Jagmohan Singh Sidhu and Col. Alok Sood for supporting me when I needed it the most.”

Udayan Mane of the Eagleton Golf Resort, Bangalore, finished third at seven-under-281.

Chandigarh’s K Raghav Bhandari and Delhi’s Anirudh Goyal shared fourth place at three-under-285.

Delhi golfer Siddharth Semwal, who fired a 68 on Friday, claimed sixth place at one-under-287.

PGTI release



Friday, January 23, 2015

Kalinga Lancers celebrate their first win against Ranchi Rays



Bhubaneswar, January 22, 2015: Commencing the 3rd edition of the HHIL on a winning note Kalinga Lancers went on the field with a determination and claimed a spectacular win against Ranchi Rays 6-3 in the inaugural match at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, Bhubaneswar today.

The match between the two teams turned out to be exciting as it rained goals throughout the entire 60 minutes. Though Kalinga Lancers had a benefit of their home turf, it did not disappoint the hopes of Ranchi Rays who stood confident enough to give a strong challenge to the opponents.

The first goal of the Hero Hockey India League 2015 went to the home-side, Kalinga Lancers which was skillfully penetrated by Lucas Vila in the 3rd minute when Ranchi Ray’s Birendra Lakra tried to whip the ball away but did not succeed. Undeterred by the goal Ranchi Rays put a brave fight and just under a minute to go in the first quarter, Barry Middleton pulled off a spectacular straight pass goal which served as an equalizer leaving the firat quarter score as 1-1.

Unfolding the second quarter of the game, the teams looked confident and made full efforts to utilize the scoring opportunities that came in. Marching ahead towards the lead, Ryan Archibald of Kalinga Lancers notched in a goal in the 17th minute which came through a field goal.  The celebrations continued at the Kalinga Stadium when Vickram Kant scored a beautifully crafted goal for the team in the 18thminute to extend the lead by 3-1.

Entering the third quarter of the game, Kalinga Lancers made it clear that they had the possession of the ball and continued with their brilliant stickwork. In the 36th minute, Ranchi Ray’s found its second goal when Ashley Jackson put his name on the score sheet through a penalty corner conversion giving a much needed goal to Ranchi Rays and taking the score to 2-3. In the very next minute, another penalty corner conversion by Gurjinder Singh of Kalinga Lancers allowed the home team to go up 4 goals to 2 marking the end of the third quarter.

In the fourth aquarter, both the teams battled a tough fight between the sticks in order to restrict the opponent to score further goals. To give the team the required lead, Ashley Jackson smacked yet another goal through a penalty corner in the 50th minute to extend the team’s advantage to 4-3.

Just when Ranchi Rays was trying to get a good control of the game, Kalinga Lancers got charged up and scored a field goal in the 58th minute which came through the stick of Mandeep Antil. And to conclude on a winning note Amir Mohd Khan gave a splendid 60thminute goal to Kalinga Lancers who finally emerged as the winners of the first match with a score of 6-3 of the Hero Hockey India League 2015.

Speaking on the first win Kalinga Lancers’ Coach Jude Felix said, “Starting the Hero Hockey India League with a win is very motivating for us. We are happy with this result and the win shows our preparedness for the game since we really worked hard in order to post a good game of hockey today. We continued with our strategies and played steady in the last quarter. We continued with the strategies that we planned and played steady in the last quarter. The team played extremely well and henceforth we have to sustain this form to win more matches.

Speaking post the match, Kalinga Lancers’ Captain and the Man of the Match said, “It’s a very good feeling to start the league with a great win. The team played very well and we enjoyed the match thoroughly. We are now very happy and emotional at the same time for our first win. Now our main job is to maintain this momentum and continue this form with our passion for hockey. We played as per our Coach's planning and we managed to implement our strategies on ground. We successfully converted our opportunities in goals and started the league with a positive note.”

Speaking on the team’s performance Ranchi Rays’ Coach Harendra Singh said, “Our performance was good however we lost the match. It’s a new team and new management so we need some time to adjust with them. We are working on the team combination as there are many junior and senior players and I am it will get better in coming matches. We made few mistakes and failed to implement our strategies in few areas which we will rectify and come in better shape in next matches.”

HIL Press release



Delhi Waveriders take on Uttar Pradesh Wizards today

Lucknow, January 22, 2015: Tomorrow will be the day when all eyes will be on the Defending Champions and how they perform in their opening match, while the crowd of Lucknow will seen cheering and backing their team to go for the kill. Last when both the teams had met was in the semi-final match of the second edition of the Hero Hockey India League wherein UP Wizards lost the match to Delhi Waveriders which stopped them from reaching the Finale.

With Uttar Pradesh Wizards looking at pay back where they lost to Delhi Waveriders by 1 goal to 0, Sardar Singh led team would be aware of this and will not allow the opponents of getting the better of them.

Beefed by the addition of Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh Oltmans coached team has in place a strong defence line-up with the likes of Raghunath, Marcel Balkestein, Wouter Jolie and Harbir Singh. Also with the mid-field position getting strengthened by the addition of Bob De Voogd of Netherlands and Shea McAleese of New Zealand the UP Wizards team looks a formidable line-up and which every other team should be weary of. On the other side, Delhi Waveriders will be looking at living upto their Defending Champions tag and with the inclusion of Defender Andrew Hayward of New Zealand it strengthens the already present line-up of Defence with names like Rupinder Pal Singh, Steven Edwards of New Zealand and Andres Mir Bel of Spain.

It will be interesting to see which team has the better of the other in their opening match tomorrow. While the Delhi team will be looking at Yuvraj Walmiki to earn them the field goals and who was leading the field goal table in the last edition wherein he struck 5 field goals in the entire edition, the team would also be looking at Rupinder Pal Singh to convert the penalty corners for the team. On the other hand it was Captain Raghunath who converted 8 important penalty corners in the last edition and who would be aiming at continuing his form in the upcoming edition and converting important penalty corner opportunities for his team.

Speaking on the match tomorrow Captain Sardar Singh, Delhi Waveriders said, “In the last two editions of the League, the team has been performing exceptionally well. In this season too we are looking forward to a good start of the league by winning the first match as it will boost the confidence and morale of the team. So this makes the opening game even more important for us. In this edition, all the teams are equally good and well prepared. Uttar Pradesh Wizards has a really good line-up of players and it is going to be a tough competition for us. We are aiming at successfully incorporating all the strategies and duties assigned by the coach. In addition to it, we will be using the strengths of the players to the maximum and eventually win the first match."

Speaking on the all important match Captain VR Raghunath, Uttar Pradesh Wizards said, “We want to start the tournament on a positive note. We are looking forward to a healthy match tomorrow with Delhi Wave Riders. We will be playing on our strong points and we hope to put up a fantastic show tomorrow."

Speaking on the clash tomorrow, Head Coach Cedric D’Souza, Delhi Waveriders said, “If we look at this season of the League, all the teams are very balanced and stacked with good players so it’s going to be tough competition but the first match is always the tougher one. It’s like getting your feet on the ground properly. Uttar Pradesh Wizards is a strong team and so are we so all I want to say is that may the best team win. We have learnt from our past mistakes and tried to rectify them. As a team, we will play to the best of our strengths and cover our weaknesses. It all depends on the performance on that given day as the level of competition is very high and we look forward to repeat history this year."

HIL Press release



Ajay Baisoya takes two-shot lead in round three of Final Qualifying Stage

Eagleton – The Golf Resort, Bangalore, January 22, 2015: Delhi’s Ajay Baisoya shot a four-under-68 to hold a two-shot lead in round three of the PGTI’s Final Qualifying Stage for the 2015 season here. Baisoya’s three-day total stood at eight-under-208. Ravinder Tavel of Chandimandir, Haryana, and Sri Lankan Vijitha Bandara were tied second at six-under-210.

Ajay Baisoya (70-70-68), who was overnight tied second, made a slow start on Thursday as he bogeyed the first hole. Baisoya, however, recovered lost ground with two excellent chip shots that led to birdies on the seventh and ninth. The 24-year-old Ajay continued the good work on the back-nine as he picked up birdies on the 10th, 12th and 17th thanks to some good putting.

“While my hitting got me into a good position after the first two rounds, today it was my short-game that did the trick. I rolled in some long putts and also chipped well. I also recovered well from some tough positions to make good pars on the 11th and 18th. I’m looking to end the week with another good score and carrying this form into the new season,” said Baisoya.

Ravinder Tavel (69) and overnight leader Vijitha Bandara (71) were two shots off the lead in joint second place.

Udayan Mane of the Eagleton Golf Resort, Bangalore, shot the day’s best score of 67 to be placed fourth at four-under-212.

Trishul Chinappa, another Bangalorean, was a further shot behind in joint fifth along with round one leader Sudhir Sharma of Meerut and Delhi’s Anirudh Goyal.

Delhi golfer and two-time Indian Open champion Ali Sher made a hole-in-one on the par-3 eighth during his round of 74. He was in tied 19th place at two-over-218.
  
Wilson Raj D Mello of Mumbai produced an unbelievable hole-in-one (albatross) on the par-4 17th courtesy a perfect drive. This was the second hole-in-one on the 17thin two days. Mani P of Bangalore, who missed the halfway cut, had earlier achieved the rare feat in round two. D Mello fired a 73 on Thursday to be tied 55th at eight-over-224.


At the end of round four on Friday, the top 37 players (+ ties) will earn full cards for the 2015 PGTI season.

PGTI release

Monday, January 19, 2015

Bihar girls win National school rugby football crown




Bihar girls tamed Odisha 17-5 to win the National School Games Rugby Football Championships title in Nagpur on January 18, 2015. Bihar boys became third beating Chhattisgarh 23-0 in the hard-line match. 

Under coach Valentine, Dabang Mumbai team is shaping out well and looks confident of taking the challenge of HHIL

Mumbai, January 18,  2015: The Dabang Mumbai squad was seen working hard on the field in order to refine their strengths and work on their weaknesses and are keen to give a laudable performance ahead of the Hero Hockey India League 2015 at Mahindra Hockey Stadium here.

Coached by Valentin Altenburg, the team grinded their skills with an aim to put their best possible efforts in every match they play. The talented lads look encouraging and positive about their performance and are anticipating a successful season of the upcoming league.

Speaking on the practice session, Dabang Mumbai’s Glenn Turner said, “I am extremely delighted to be back in India for the third time. Hero Hockey India League is a very good learning experience for all the participants. This is the first season with the new team and I am really excited to start this season's campaign. The team under the new coach is shaping really well and I am confident that the team will make it to the semi finals this season. We have a right mix of Indian talent and International experience along with a calm coach who is directing the team very well.”

The opening day of the League will see Kalinga Lancers playing host to Ranchi Rays at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.

HIL Press release

Saturday, January 17, 2015

Kalinga Lancers reveal team jersey ahead of the Hero Hockey India League 2015


Bhubaneswar, January 17, 2015: In the upcoming season of Hero Hockey India League, starting January 22, the talented lads of Kalinga Lancers will have their panache shored up by a vivacious team jersey that was unveiled today by their captain Vickram Kanth and Head Coach Jude Felix, in the press conference managed by Percept Sports & Entertainment today at Hotel Mayfair. 

The jersey unveil was followed by the team announcement of Kalinga Lancers.  They also uncovered a gleaming golden ‘Man of the Match’ Trophy, one of its kinds, at the ceremony.

The Lancers will be seen sporting a vibrant orange and white coloured jersey proudly when they step out on their home turf against Ranchi Rays, at Kalinga Stadium on the first day of the League.

The Kalinga Lancers jersey in this edition will don cosmetic changes which enhances the overall look and feel, making it appear more energetic and full of life. What stole the show was the ‘Man of the Match’ Trophy – that was unveiled keeping in view the craze and passion that the people of Bhubaneswar have in their hearts for Hockey.

The unique golden-in-colour trophy has a figure of a player with a hockey stick in his hands, above a golden round ball which rightly conveys the message of taking the popular game to the entire world. It rests on a wooden stand with a plaque that exhibits the team’s logo on it with utmost pride. This is one of a kind trophy that the franchisee of Kalinga Lancers has introduced and will be awarded to the ‘Man of the Match’ for matches being played in Bhubaneswar.

Speaking post the unveiling ceremony,  Kalinga Lancers Captain Vickram Kanth said, “The new look of the team jersey is very pulsating and you immediately feel all charged up when you have a look at it. I am immensely amazed by the ‘Man of the Match’ trophy. It is really very encouraging and matchless. I am eagerly waiting to don the new look, along with my team-mates, and walk into the stadium with heads held high.”

Remarking on the new team jersey and the trophy, Coach Jude Felix said, “The boys look extremely confident and well-groomed in this new look. The effervescent colour combination will make them more energetic and I am sure they will stand out in this League. I wish the young Lancers a successful League ahead.”

HIL Press release


Ghosh regains title, high-fives for Mouma

Pudhucherry, January 17, 2015: Soumyajit Ghosh defeated top-seed G. Sathiyan 4-2 to regain the men’s singles crown for the second time while top-seed Mouma Das downed Poulami Ghatak, also by the same margin, for her fifth women’s singles title at the 76th Senior Nationals at the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium here today.

Ghosh took home Rs. 2 lakh and Mouma, who was taking on Poulami for the fourth time since their first final appearance in 1998 at Ajmer, received Rs. 1.40 lakh. The runners-up in both section got half the amount as their prize money.

Ghosh, who first won the title at Raipur two years ago, had to prove a point to himself rather than his critics. And today, he showed it by beating the top seed. No doubt, Sathiyan was in a great form this season and things were even going well for him until the semifinals. But in the final, Ghosh was not only superb but also came into his attacking self.

With a comfortable 3-1 cushion, Sathiyan was playing into Ghosh’s hands and the latter had to simply keep the ball on the table. In fact, that was he did with perfect placing and good, aggressive backhand winners. A rattled Sathiyan, however hard he tried, could not come to his own terms and surrendered to the guiles of Ghosh.   

5 out of 10 for Mouma
Ten final appearances and five national titles are not bad at all. And Mouma, who has been rewarded for her perseverance and longevity, was a deserving winner on the day. Any new comer would have thrown in the towel after being 0-2 down, but Mouma always thrived on challenges. Launching her attack from the third game, the 32-year-old played true to her potential and outwitted Poulami Ghatak with clean execution of shots from both flanks and top-spin backhand serves.

Poulami, in spite of her ability to come back any time, was somewhat hampered by Mouma’s tactics and was committing far too many mistakes. Once Mouma equalized, it was always going to be difficult for Poulami to beat her opponent, known for her steely nerves.

Except for one semifinal each in the men and women’s sections, the two others were totally one-sided. If Sathiyan, in a roaring form this season, made mincemeat of Harmeet Desai with an outright 4-0 victory, six-time national champion Poulami Ghatat was equally severe on young Ankita Das. The reigning champion from Siliguri was out of depths and it was visible in her semifinal match against Poulami.
Unlike these two semifinals, the one between Soumyajit Ghosh and surprise package Raj Mondal had all the thrilling moments. In fact, the match seemed going only one way as Mondal was raised his game against the former national champion, going 3-1 up. But Ghosh’s fighting qualities stood him in good stead as he came back nicely to take the last three games.

In fact, Mondal had a very good chance in the sixth game but he only managed to stretch Ghosh a bit before the latter levelled the score.  Having done that, Ghosh played a cool game to sew up the decider, much to the disappointment of Mondal, who will rue the missed chance, after making his maiden semifinals appearance. He was, probably, guilty of not keeping the initial attacking posture, instead preferring to slow down midway through.

Mouma, as usual, played her sizing up game before upping the ante to go 2-1 up. Shamini, who showed her true grit in the pre-quarterfinals against Mousumi Paul, was patchy in the semifinals. Mouma, on the other hand, kept the momentum going her way, despite losing a game or two in between, to set up the fourth final against Poulami.

Results:
Men’s Singles: Final: Soumyajit Ghosh (PSPB) bt G. Sathiyan (PSPB) 4-2 (11-7, 9-11, 11-3, 13-11, 13-15, 11-9); Semifinals: G. Sathiyan (PSPB) bt Harmeet Desai (PSPB) 4-0 (11-9, 11-8, 11-7, 11-5), Soumyajit Ghosh (PSPB) bt Raj Mondal (RBI) 4-3 (8-11, 11-5, 4-11, 4-11, 11-4, 12-10, 11-8).
Doubles: Final: Sanil Shetty/Anthony Amalraj (PSPB) bt Jubin Kumar/Sourav Chakraborty (Har) 3-1 (11-8, 7-11, 11-6, 11-7).
Women’s Singles: Final: Mouma Das (PSPB) bt Poulami Ghatak (PSPB) 4-2 (7-11, 7-11, 11-3, 14-12, 11-7, 11-6); Semifinals: Mouma Das (PSPB) bt K. Shamini (PSPB) 4-3 (7-11, 13-11, 11-7, 8-11, 11-6, 6-11, 11-5), Poulami Ghatak (PSPB) bt Ankita Das (PSPB) 4-1 (11-1, 11-9, 7-11, 11-3, 11-1).
Doubles: Final: Mouma Das/K. Shamini (PSPB) bt Mallika Bhandarkar/Vedika Garga (Mah-B) 3-0 (11-8, 11-3, 11-5).
Mixed Doubles: Final: Raj Mondal/Krittwika Sinha Roy (RBI) bt Sourav Saha/Mousumi Paul (WB) 3-1 (7-11, 11-2, 11-1, 11-7). 

A TTFI Press release