NEW DELHI: The Indian Women’s Hockey Team clinched the title in the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Rajgir 2024, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory against China in the final at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium. A crucial goal by Deepika in the 31st minute ensured India successfully defended their title and lifted the trophy.
The final began with both teams engaging in an intense battle, trading attacks but failing to convert opportunities in the first half. India’s defense, led by the impressive Bichu Devi, kept China at bay, including a remarkable save off a penalty corner attempt by Jinzhuang Tan. The turning point came early in the second half when Deepika capitalized on a penalty corner, delivering a precise reverse shot into the bottom-right corner of the goal.
ALSO READ: Thrilling 5-3 win for India, Germany claims series
India maintained their dominance after taking the lead, pushing China deep into their own half and creating several scoring chances. Although Deepika missed a penalty stroke later in the match, the Indian defense stood resilient, denying China any chance of equalizing. Despite a late surge by the Chinese team, India held their ground to secure their third Asian Champions Trophy title.
The team’s exceptional performance was rewarded generously. The Bihar Government announced ₹10 lakh for each player, ₹10 lakh for Chief Coach Harendra Singh, and ₹5 lakh for each member of the support staff. Hockey India declared ₹3 lakh for every player and ₹1.5 lakh for the support staff. The Asian Hockey Federation also introduced cash rewards for the first time, granting USD 10,000 to India as champions.
ALSO READ: Former Indian women’s Hockey captain Rani announces retirement
This victory not only cements India’s dominance in Asian women’s hockey but also highlights their tactical brilliance and resilience under pressure. The triumph at Rajgir serves as a testament to the team’s commitment and inspires future generations to pursue excellence in the sport.