Rise of Indian hockey team
The Indian men’s and women’s hockey teams achieved great heights during the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics. After finishing wooden spoon in the Rio Olympics, the Indian women’s team showed great character in Tokyo Olympics. Under the captaincy of Rani Rampal, they were thrashed by Netherlands 1-5, Germany 0-2, and then Great Britain 1-4 in the first three matches. Needing to stay alive in the tournament, the Indian team played attacking hockey against Ireland earning 14 penalty corners but did not convert into goals. With 3 minutes left, a superb deflection touch by Navneet Kaur helped India take the lead. The Indian defense stood tall and held their nerves to win it by 1-0. In the final group match against South Africa, Vandana Katria became the first Indian woman to score a hattrick in Olympics history. Thanks to her efforts, India registered a thrilling 4-3 win. Great Britain defeated Ireland helping the Indian team qualify for the quarterfinals stage. The Indian wom...