Odisha Warriors defeated Soorma Hockey Club 2-1 in a nail-biting finale to become the first-ever champions of the Women's Hockey India League. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal was the hero for Warriors, scoring both goals in the 20th and 38th minutes. With this victory, Warriors made the state of Odisha and their chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi proud, cementing their position as a formidable team in the women's hockey circuit.
In a packed stadium in Ranchi, history was made as the Odisha Warriors and JSW Soorma Hockey Club competed in the final of the inaugural season of the Women's Hockey India League. After a tight and intense match, it was Rutuja Pisal who scored the crucial goal to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory for the Warriors and claim the coveted trophy. The crowd was treated to an exhilarating display of women's hockey, marking a significant moment in the development of the sport.
The Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 - Hockey Ka Jashan is all set to launch with a grand opening ceremony at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela. Featuring top Indian celebrities, cutting-edge technology and a vibrant theme 'Hockey ka Jashn,' the event promises to be a celebration of sport and entertainment. Spectators in Rourkela will have free access to the opening ceremony as well as all matches, making the league more accessible to fans across the country. With innovative visual effects and interactive experiences, the evening will set the stage for an unforgettable season of hockey.
The Indian government has announced the recipients of the prestigious Padma Awards for 2025, with PR Sreejesh among the five chosen in the Sports category. Retired since last year, Sreejesh is widely considered one of India's greatest hockey players and goalkeepers, with a crucial role in the country's recent success in the sport. Other notable awardees in the sports category include legendary footballer IM Vijayan and Paralympic gold medalist Harvinder Singh.
Indian athletes including boxer Saweety Boora and hockey players were awarded the prestigious Arjuna Awards by President Droupadi Murmu during the National Sports Awards ceremony. Chess grandmaster Vantika Agrawal and athlete Jyothi Yarraji were also conferred with the Arjuna Award for their remarkable performances at the Chess Olympiad and Paris Olympics respectively. Boora dedicated her award to her family and supporters, while Vantika was part of the first-ever Indian women's team to win gold at the Chess Olympiad. Despite not qualifying for the semifinals at the Olympics, Jyothi's achievement was recognized through this honor.
The Indian sports community is in celebration as shooter Manu Bhaker, chess world champion D Gukesh, men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh, and para-athlete Praveen Kumar have been selected as recipients of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Bhaker's historic double-medal win at the Olympics, along with Harmanpreet's leadership in securing a second consecutive bronze for the Indian hockey team, were highlights of their achievements. Gukesh's victory as the youngest ever chess world champion and helping India win the gold in Chess Olympiad, and Praveen's T64 championship win in Paralympics, have also earned them the prestigious award. The award ceremony will take place on January 17, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the awardees will receive this recognition from the President of India.
Indian athletes Manu Bhaker and D Gukesh have been selected to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award, the highest sporting honor in the country. This announcement comes alongside the nomination of Indian men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh and para-athlete Praveen Kumar for the same award. The recipients will receive their awards in a special ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in 2025. Bhaker and Gukesh have made their mark in their respective sports, with Bhaker making history as the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympics, and Gukesh becoming the youngest ever World Chess champion.
The Hockey India League finally kicked off with a mixed bag of on and off-field events. The opening ceremony was cancelled due to the demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh, but that didn't stop Delhi SG Pipers from securing a 2-2 draw against Team Gonasika and ultimately taking the bonus point in a shootouts. It was definitely a grand start for the tournament despite the initial setback.
As the Hockey India League kicked off in Rourkela, fans were treated to an exciting game between newcomers Delhi SG Pipers and Gonasika. While the match ended in a 2-2 draw in regulation time, Delhi emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, with Tomas Domene and Aditya Lalage proving to be the heroes for their team. Despite a strong performance from both sides, Gonasika's missed opportunities in the shootout cost them the victory.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praise India's junior men's hockey team for their historic win in the Junior Asia Cup 2024 against Pakistan. Araijeet Singh Hundal's four goals helped secure a 5-3 victory over Pakistan in the final. This is India's fifth title in the competition, with previous wins in 2023, 2015, 2008, and 2004. Hockey India has also announced a cash reward for the players and support staff for their exceptional performance.