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All the news for Monday 25 June 2018

Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy Breda 2018 - Day 2
Breda (NED)

Results 24 Jun 2018
IND v ARG (RR) 2 - 1
NED v BEL (RR) 6 - 1
AUS v PAK (RR) 2 - 1

Monday 25 June is a rest day

Pool Standings

India finish Day 2 at top of the table at Men’s Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy 2018


India topped the table at the end of Day 2 in Breda. Copyright: FIH / World Sport Pics

Asian continental champions India ended the second day of action at the Men’s Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy 2018 sitting at the top of the table thanks to a fine win against Olympic champions Argentina in Breda, Netherlands. Australia finished the day in second place courtesy of a victory against Pakistan, while home favourites the Netherlands were in scintillating form by overpowering Belgium.

India (FIH Hero World Ranking: 6) were triumphant in the opening match of the day, claiming a 2-1 victory against Olympic champions Argentina (WR:2) on the occasion of Sardar Singh’s 300th international appearance. It was India’s second successive win of the competition, following their 4-0 victory over Pakistan on Saturday. All of the goals came in the second quarter of the match, with Harmanpreet Singh opening the scoring with a powerful low penalty corner effort before Mandeep Singh doubled the advantage with a close range finish after excellent se-up play from teenager Dilpreet Singh. A ferocious penalty corner drag-flick from Gonzalo Peillat dragged Los Leones back into the contest ahead of the break but, despite excellent chances for both sides after half time, the score remained unchanged.

Speaking after the match, triple caps centurion Sardar Singh said: “It is a great honour for me to have played 300 matches for my country. In the team meeting the players said that they would win for me, and they did it. I have to thank my team mates for that.”

A huge home crowd were given a superb show in the day’s second match, with the Netherlands (WR:4) producing a spellbinding performance to defeat neighbours Belgium (WR:3) 6-1. The Red Lions hit the post in the opening minute before the Dutch ran riot, scoring three times between the fourth and sixth minutes through Seve van As and Roel Bovendeert (2). Strikes from Jeroen Hertzberger and Mirco Pruijser took the score to 5-0 at half time, with Belgium reducing the deficit thanks to John-John Dohmen after the break. Herzberger, playing his first major international competition since Rio 2016, claimed his second and the Netherlands’ sixth goal from the penalty spot to complete a stunning final score for the hosts.  

“That was so much fun, I really enjoyed that”, said Jeroen Hertzberger after the match. “I think that first half was probably the best half of hockey I have ever played in. I had a smile on my face all the way though.”

Australia (WR:1) added to their opening day draw against Belgium with a narrow 2-1 win over Pakistan (WR:13) in the final match of the day. An open play strike from Ajaz Ahmad put the Green Shirts in front early in the second quarter, but parity was restored when Jake Whetton fired home five minutes before half time. The winning goal arrived four minutes from the end, with Blake Govers touching home from close range to put the the Kookaburras second in the table after two rounds of matches.

“All the games in the Champions Trophy are pretty tough battles, I think we expected that against Pakistan”, said Australia co-captain Eddie Ockenden at the conclusion of the contest. “We have seen their recent results and obviously the way they played against India yesterday, they are a really good team and it is great to play against them. It was really important to get the three points.”

Monday 25 June is a competition rest day, with the Men’s Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy 2018 action resuming on Tuesday 26th June with two potentially thrilling encounters in Breda. At 18:00 Central European Standard Time (UTC+1), Olympic champions Argentina face Belgium in a rematch of the Rio 2016 gold medal game before hosts the Netherlands take on Pakistan at 20:00. Spectator tickets for the event are still available. For more information, please click here.

A full schedule as well as broadcasting and official competition information can be found on FIH.CH, with extended coverage coming via the FIH social media channels.

#HCT2018

FIH site

India showcase intent with statement win against Olympic gold medallists Argentina

Sundeep Misra


India's Mandeep Singh celebrates after scoring the second goal against Argentina. Image courtesy: Twitter @HockeyIndia

Breda (Netherlands): When Surender Kumar held the ball in the Indian striking circle in the first quarter with Argentina exerting pressure, the full back didn’t just flick the ball away to safety, he looked straight at Lucas Vila and without batting an eyelid flipped the ball through Argentine's legs for Harmanpreet Singh to clear. Argentina at that moment knew they had a worthy opponent.

During the course of the match, the Olympic Champions played catch-up as India displayed an ocean of calm, oodles of confidence and a penchant for creating surprising moves that won them the intriguing contest 2-1.

More importantly, it was a statement that made many in the hockey fraternity at Breda sit up and take notice. India’s victory cannot be classified just as a ‘big win’, it also showed the former Olympic Champions' intent to climb, albeit step-by-step, from their 6th position in the world of hockey.

After Saturday’s 4-0 win over Pakistan, coach Harendra Singh had said, “With due respect, the tournament begins with the match against Argentina.” It is a truism in the world of hockey that the big teams are – Argentina, Holland, Belgium and Australia – with three of the four teams in India's group.

Harendra is not wary, “I am looking forward to the matches. We learn every day. Every match is a step forward,” he said.

Ramandeep Singh’s injury had disturbed the team formation and when Lalit Upadhyay played as the lone ranger upfront backed by a phalanx of four attacking midfielders, including Sardar Singh, Harendra was listening to his instincts. Argentina hates back-pedalling and do not like looking over its shoulder. Neither they have tasted too many defeats from teams below them in the pecking order, especially in the last year.

However, in this match, Lalit chased the ball and did more off-the-ball running, to leave Argentina's defender Pedro Ibarra, resembling a plucked hen at the end of 60 minutes.

Argentina did the initial press. They used the flanks to stretch the Indian defence. However, Birendra Lakra, Harmanpreet, Surender and Varun Kumar stood firm. Their structure was good and India avoided penalty corners as well. Argentina's dragflicker Gonzalo Peillat, a nightmare for most teams, in his last match played against Sardar-led India at the Azlan Shah scored a hat-trick to beat India 3-2. So when a spate of three penalty corners came in the first quarter, all consecutive, it was like a story being replayed. On the third penalty corner, goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, down on one knee, took the flick on the glove, to send the ball over the post.

The first wave of attacks had been repulsed. Jarmanpreet Singh seemed the weak link; not a normal scenario for a youngster making his debut in a tournament where seasoned pros could feel jittery. However, he improved through the match, even making forays into the Argentinian half.

In the second quarter, India asserted. They took control of the midfield where Vivek made some smart changes, giving the ball to different directions, catching Argentina off guard. Sardar played a larger role; holding the ball, understanding the situation and making the pass, either to the back or a parallel. Errors were cut and not many moves were broken in the midfield as India did its bit of domination.

Harmanpreet threatened to create a move as he moved up, but a stick check from the back gave India its first penalty corner. While receiving the ball – Harmanpreet moved slightly to his right, pushed the ball in front, creating that crucial bit of space – and let loose a diagonal flick that went low giving India 1-0 lead.

There was a second penalty corner too, but Argentina defended it. Meanwhile, the midfield rotated the ball well, whilst the Olympic Champions tried to plug the gaps and kept the ball on the flanks, stretching the movement.

Off one such move, Varun sent an aerial ball deep into the Argentine territory. Forward Dilpreet Singh trapped it neatly, like a lacrosse player, switched sideways, sent the defender the wrong way and neatly tapped it to Mandeep Singh, who dived to nudge the slow ball into the Argentine goal. At 2-0, India were coasting.

India’s second goal had come in the 28th minute and when it seemed that India could relax at the half-way mark, Argentina had their fourth penalty corner. Peillat showed why he is one of the world’s best as his flick was like a guided missile, rising high and straight into the top corner of the goal passing the Indian defenders, who simply watched the ball in awe.

At 1-2, Argentina was breathing again. India knew the challenges in the third and fourth quarter.

The Indians mixed it up in the third quarter. They had five circle entries with two shots on goal. Argentina had three with one shot on goal. India could easily have increased the lead but Argentina's goalkeeper Santiago Tomas saved consecutive shots from Dilpreet and Mandeep. India was rattling the Olympic Champions, creating moves with two-three players involved in the execution from midfield to striking circle. The game was being stretched across the width of the pitch. Argentina wasted a fifth penalty corner after Peillat fired it wide.

The fourth quarter was tense. Both teams minimised errors and reduced irrational decision-making. However, with six minutes to go for the final hooter,  India had a yellow and a subsequent green saw Surender go out. For a while, India were down to nine men as they back-pedalled, but the possession remained good. The determination of not only clearing, but also passing the ball parallel to spread out players, ticked off valuable seconds.

Argentina pushed for an equaliser having eight circle entries to India’s five. Vila, the wily Argentinian forward, found the space and scooped towards the Indian goal, but Varun cleared it off the line. India was playing well ahead of the circle. They inter-changed positions inside the circle catching the ball and clearing to well-placed players. They weren't just blind flicks that could start off an Argentinian attack. The intention was not just to clear, but to initiate possession and if possible create a counter.

The win gives India six points after two matches with World No 1 Australia, Olympic silver medallists Belgium and hosts Holland still to play; challenges that this team should relish, irrespective of the result.

After the match, Harendra said, “The good thing is that the boys are following the plan and also understanding what is required of them.”

Before the start of the mach, a wonderful gesture by the team saw the captain's armband being handed over over to former skipper Sardar, who was playing his 300th international. In modern day hockey, reaching 300 matches is a landmark or as Harendra said, “classifies you as a true legend.”

Sardar, who was once again mobbed by the Indian fans was grateful that he had played 300 internationals and thanked the team for offering him the armband. “In the morning at the hotel, the team gave me a signed shirt and it’s a moment that I cannot forget."

Harendra also said that he had written down a message on the team board – ‘the lion will hunt today’  – a kind of commemoration for the occasion.

Harendra is realistic that the next three games could be baptism by fire for him as a coach and the team as well.

With a smile he said, “It’s an opportunity to try and infuse some fresh ideas into our play.” — a philosophy that has served the Indians exceedingly well so far.

Firstpost

India bleeds Olympic champions pride at Breda

s2h team

India bled reigning Olympic Champions Argentina's pride at Breda Champions Trophy with a heartwarming 2-1 victory to move further in its quest for medal. Coming after demolishing Pakistan yesterday in the opener, India now tops the pool with six points in the prestigious tournament.

After an eventful but barren first quarter, India went up with an immaculate penalty corner conversion by Harmanpreet, and later in the same quarter Mandeep Singh guided a guile Dilpreet Singh's close range pass to enlarge the lead. Gonzalo Peillat's goal gave life to Argentina in the dying moments of second quarter, but gritty India held the sway in the last and decisive quarter to romp home as victor.

India had enough chances in the fourth quarter with incisive run downs and precise ball supply into the circle by Sunil, but the goalkeeper could not be beaten even on one to one situation. Sunil could once place the ball just wide off the post when challenged by the goalie near at the top of D.

India braved three consecutive penalty corners midway through first quarter, all three attempted by fearsome Gonzalo Peillat.First one hit Manpreet Singh, who had to limp back. The resultant penalty corner was again met the same fate. The third one was near goal, but goalie Sreejesh raised his hand in time to palm it away the ballooning ball falling in no man's land.

Moments later, in a counter Mandeep Sent a perfect slap to Simranjeet, who just fumbled in stopping, losing momentum to strike at goal from top of the circle.

A stick tackle of speeding Harmanpreet Singh near dotted lines gave India a gift, its first penalty corner of which Harmanpreet slotted home the ball on a grounder. (1-0).

Two minutes before the half time, a defender stretched his stick up near his own circle to intercept an Indian overhead, but young Dilpreet Singh, lurking around near circle lapped on to it, and on surrounded by a marker near backline, passed selflessly to Mandeep Singh. Mandeep was hemmed in by two defenders still managed to bend fully to deflect the pass into D (2-0). within a minute, Gonazalo Peillat could not be denied his goal when sent the ball to the left of goalkeeper off the fourth penalty corner that came after successful referral (2-1).

A few seconds before India got its second penalty corner of which Harmanpreet Singh effected a drag which was intercepted close to him by the first charger.

India defended four of the five penalty corners it conceded, while Argentina could keep clean slate one in two penalty corners that India got.

India has two days rest now before taking on its third match.

Stick2Hockey.com

India stun Argentina 2-1 in Champions Trophy hockey


@TheHockeyIndia/Twitter

India continued their unbeaten run in the Champions Trophy hockey tournament and surprised Olympic champions Argentina 2-1 for a second consecutive win in the 37th and last edition of the prestigious tournament here on Sunday.

India scored both their goals in the second quarter through Harmanpreet Singh (17th minute), who converted a penalty corner, and Mandeep Singh (28th).

World number two Argentina's lone goal came from the sticks of dragflciker Gonzalo Peillat, who scored from a set piece in the 30th minute.

India, eyeing their maiden Champions Trophy title, had earlier crushed bitter-rivals Pakistan 4-0 in their campaign opener yesterday.

India now sit atop the six-team standings with two wins from as many games.

The eight-time Olympic champions will take on world champions Australia in their next round robin match on June 27.

The team's new chief coach Harendra Singh couldn't have asked for a better start to his fourth stint with the senior national side. Harendra took over the reins after swapping roles with Sjoerd Marijne, following India's dreadful Commonwealth Games campaign.

Coming into the tournament on the back of a disastrous campaign at the Gold Coast Games, where they finished a disappointing fourth, the Indians made their intentions clear early on by showcasing all-round, compact hockey in their opening two games.

The Indians carried on from where they left against Pakistan last night and produced a solid display in all departments of the game to get the better of their fancied rivals.

The defence, which was once India's perennial problem, yet again stole the show with a compact display, while the forwardline was up to the mark despite missing Ramandeep Singh owing to a knee injury suffered yesterday.

The talismanic Sardar Singh, who played his 300th international game today, controlled the midfield and combined well with the forwardline to create opportunities.

Argentina, however, were quick to get off the blocks, securing three consecutive penalty corners in the first quarter, but the Indian defence stood tall to deny Peillat.

Next it was India's turn to earn a penalty corner in the 17th minute and Harmanpreet fired home with a low flick through the legs of Argentina goalkeeper Tomas Santiago.

Two minutes from half time, India doubled their lead through Mandeep but it was Dilpreet, who created the chance by brilliantly controlling a overhead long ball inside the circle and then setting it up for his striking colleague.

Argentina pulled one goal back just at the stroke of half time through Peillat's powerful strike to the top left corner of the Indian goal.

India got their second penalty corner seconds from half time but Harmanpreet failed this time.

After the change of ends, the Los Leones pressed hard and in the process earned their fifth penalty corner, but the Indian defence was up to the task.

Minutes later, Argentina custodian Santiago made a double save from a counterattack to deny Dilpreet and Mandeep.

In the final quarter, Varun Kumar made a goal-line save to deny Lucas Villa a chance to draw parity for Argentina.

The Tribune

India stun Argentina, continue unbeaten run

India, eyeing their maiden Champions Trophy title, had earlier crushed bitter-rivals Pakistan 4-0 in their campaign opener.


Indian hockey players celebrate a goal during the Champions Trophy Hockey 2018 match against Argentina, in Breda on Sunday. Photo Credit: PTI

India surprised Olympic champion Argentina 2-1 for a second consecutive win in the 37th and last edition of the Champions Trophy hockey tournament here on Sunday.

India found its goals through Harmanpreet Singh (17th minute), who converted a penalty corner, and Mandeep Singh (28th). World No. 2 Argentina’s lone goal came from the stick of drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat, who scored from a set piece in the 30th minute.

India, which now sits atop the six-team standings with two wins from as many games, will next take on World champion Australia on June 27.

The Indians carried on from where they left against Pakistan and produced a solid display in all departments to get the better of their fancied rivals.

The defence, once India’s major problem, yet again stole the show with a compact display, while the forward-line was up to the mark despite Ramandeep Singh sitting out owing to a knee injury suffered on Saturday.

Sardar’s 300th

The talismanic Sardar Singh, who was playing his 300th international, controlled the midfield and combined well with the forward-line to create opportunities.

Argentina, however, was quick to get off the blocks, securing three consecutive penalty corners in the first quarter, but all went in vain.

When India earned a penalty corner in the 17th minute, Harmanpreet fired home with a low flick through the legs of Argentina goalkeeper Tomas Santiago.

Two minutes from half time, India doubled its lead through Mandeep but it was Dilpreet, who created the chance by brilliantly controlling a overhead long ball inside the circle and then setting it up for his striking colleague.

After the change of ends, the Los Leones pressed hard and in the process earned its fifth penalty corner, but the Indian defence was up to the task. Minutes later, Argentina custodian Santiago made a double save from a counter-attack to deny Dilpreet and Mandeep.

In the final quarter, Varun Kumar made a goal-line save to deny Lucas Villa a chance to draw parity.

The results: India 2 (Harmanpreet 17, Mandeep 28) bt Argentina 1 (Gonzalo Peillat 30); The Netherlands 6 bt Belgium 1.

The Hindu

Australia Battle Out a 2-1 Win

Rob Muir



Australia has fought hard to come away with a 2-1 win against Pakistan this Monday morning in Breda, Netherlands.

Australia started slowly with Pakistan dominating possession earlier in the first quarter. Following a goal to Pakistan in the 9th minute, Australia levelled the scores through Trent Mitton in the 12th minute.

The game remained locked until the 56th minute where a decisive deflection from Blake Govers saw Australia come away with the win.

The win puts Australia second in the pool behind India who has won their first two games.

Australia plays India next on June 27th at 11PM AEST.

Pakistan started the game with the majority of the possession and received the first penalty corner in the 8th minute.

Poor defence by Australia led to Pakistan scoring from a deflection goal by Ajaz Ahmad in the 9th minute.

Australia was quick to respond following a Pakistan green card with Trent Mitton finding the back of the net with a nice deflection on the back post in the 13th minute.

Pakistan missed from directly in front of goal as Australia’s defence showed some holes in the 20th second quarter. Both sides continued to have opportunities, but the score remained level at half-time.

Tim Brand put one in the back of the net in the 33rd minute but a referral found it as back stick and the score remained one all. Australia continued to build momentum through a number of penalty corners but some fast running from Pakistan meant they couldn’t find the back of the net.

Following a successful defensive referral, Australia lost their referral after looking for an attacking penalty corner in the 53rd minute. Australia continued to apply pressure and took the lead in the 55th minute from a deflection by Blake Govers off an Aaron Kleinschmidt toma-hawk. Pakistan had a couple of more opportunities, but the score remained 2-1.

Australia 2 (Mitton 12’, Govers 56’)
Pakistan 1 (Ahmad 9’)

Hockey Australia media release

Pakistan goes down fighting 1-2 to Australia

By Ijaz Chaudhry

World's No 1 hockey nation Australia faced Pakistan ranked 13, the bottom side in this Champions Trophy in the Dutch city of Breda.

The last time these two sides met, in the international invitational festival of hockey last November, Pakistan were pulverized 1-9

But the green shirts surprised everyone today with a wonderful display.

It could have been anyone’s game. However, an Australian goal in the dying minutes sealed three points for them.

Pakistan came out of the blocks quickly, making a couple of circle penetrations in early minutes. After wasting a penalty corner, they went ahead in the ninth minute.  A superb hit from outside 23 metres was expertly deflected in by unmarked Ajaz Ahmed standing alone in the mid circle.

Within three minutes the Kookaburras equalized. A ball from just outside the circle was well directed into the goal by Trent Mitton.

In the 21st minute, Arslan Qadir missed a sitter when he shot wide with goal at his mercy. Then Australia had their moments. Blake Govers misfired an opportunity and later Pakistani net minder Imran Butt twice denied them.

Half Time  1:1

Immediately on resumption, Butt saved a top of the circle bullet.  In the 38th minute, Brand put it in but it was ruled out for back stick after Pakistan had asked for the video referral.                                                                                                                       

Pakistan made a couple of good but fruitless raids. It was followed by a period of immense Australian pressure. They obtained four penalty corners in space of five minutes. But Imran Butt, who had an outstanding game and the rushers rose to the occasion.

Soon, it was Pakistan’s turn and the Australian goal keeper made two successive saves.

 It was still all to play for when the last quarter began.

Umar Bhutta penetrated beautifully into the opponents circle from right. His back pass from the goal line was squandered by Arslan Qadir. The tense battle continued. Pakistan made a couple of good raids.

The tide turned as Aussies appeared to be in command

With just four minutes left, a superb top of circle reverse shot on turn by Aaron Kleinshcmidt was deftly one touched into the cage by Blake Govers well positioned in front of the goal.

Pakistan had a golden chance to put it even with just two minutes to go. But Mubashar 's flick on the penalty corner went miles off the target.   

Today, Pakistan appeared well organized in the defence. Up front, they passed the ball around well.

SCORERS:

Pakistan: Ajaz Ahmed (9’)  Australia: Trent Mitton (12’) and Blake Govers (56’)  

The two earlier matches saw surprise results.

India defeated Olympic Champions Argentina 2-1

Hosts Netherlands trounced Belgium 6-1

PHF Media release

Australia down Pakistan 2-1



Breda - Pakistan faced another defeat in the Champions Trophy taking place in Breda, Netherlands on Sunday when Australia downed the green shirts by 2-1.

Australia, one of the most successful teams in the Champions Trophy with 14 titles under its belt, added another win to its list of glory. Pakistan lost their opening match of the tournament 4-0 to India while Australia drew their game 3-3 against Belgium on Saturday.

Pakistan won the inaugural edition of the Champions Trophy held in Lahore in 1978 when they beat Australia in the final. Four years later, Pakistan picked up their second title beating West Germany in Karachi. The last time Pakistan picked up the Champions Trophy title was in 1994 in Lahore, when they beat Germany (7–6) on penalty strokes. Not only does Pakistan have three titles under its belt, the green shirts have finished as runner-up seven times in the tournament in 1983, 1984, 1988, 1991, 1996, 1998, and 2014.

Six teams are taking part in this year's tournament, which is the last edition of the Champions Trophy. The tournament will be replaced by the Hockey Pro League (HPL) in 2019. Apart from hosts the Netherlands, Australia, Argentina, Belgium, India and Pakistan are taking part in the tournament from June 23 to July 1.

INDIA STUN ARGENTINA 2-1: India surprised Olympic champion Argentina 2-1 for a second consecutive win in the 37th and last edition of the Champions Trophy hockey tournament here on Sunday. India found its goals through Harmanpreet Singh (17th minute), who converted a penalty corner, and Mandeep Singh (28th). World No. 2 Argentina’s lone goal came from the stick of drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat, who scored from a set piece in the 30th minute.

India, which now sits atop the six-team standings with two wins from as many games, will next take on World champion Australia on June 27. The Indians carried on from where they left against Pakistan and produced a solid display in all departments to get the better of their fancied rivals. The defence, once India’s major problem, yet again stole the show with a compact display, while the forward-line was up to the mark despite Ramandeep Singh sitting out owing to a knee injury suffered on Saturday.

The talismanic Sardar Singh, who was playing his 300th international, controlled the midfield and combined well with the forward-line to create opportunities. Argentina, however, was quick to get off the blocks, securing three consecutive penalty corners in the first quarter, but all went in vain. When India earned a penalty corner in the 17th minute, Harmanpreet fired home with a low flick through the legs of Argentina goalkeeper Tomas Santiago.

Two minutes from half time, India doubled its lead through Mandeep but it was Dilpreet, who created the chance by brilliantly controlling a overhead long ball inside the circle and then setting it up for his striking colleague. After the change of ends, the Los Leones pressed hard and in the process earned its fifth penalty corner, but the Indian defence was up to the task. Minutes later, Argentina custodian Santiago made a double save from a counter-attack to deny Dilpreet and Mandeep. In the final quarter, Varun Kumar made a goal-line save to deny Lucas Villa a chance to draw parity.

Results

Australia 2-1 Pakistan
Nederland 6-1 Belgium
India 2-1 Argentina

The Nation

Australia beat Pakistan by 2-1


Australia’s Simon Orchard (R) challenges Pakistan’s Rashid Mehmood during their men’s group A hockey match at the 2012 Olympics in London. Photo: Reuters (File)

NETHERLANDS: Pakistan faced another defeat in the Champions Trophy taking place in Breda, Netherlands on Sunday as Australia downed the green shirts by 2-1.

Australia, one of the most successful teams in the Champions Trophy with 14 titles under its belt, added another win to its list of glory.

Pakistan lost their opening match of the tournament 4-0 to India while Australia drew their game 3-3 against Belgium on Saturday.

Pakistan won the inaugural edition of the Champions Trophy held in Lahore in 1978 when they beat Australia in the final.

Four years later, Pakistan picked up their second title beating West Germany in Karachi. The last time Pakistan picked up the Champions Trophy title was in 1994 in Lahore, when they beat Germany (7–6) on penalty strokes.

Not only does Pakistan have three titles under its belt, the green shirts have finished as runner-up seven times in the tournament in 1983, 1984, 1988, 1991, 1996, 1998, and 2014.

Six teams will be taking part in this year's tournament, which is the last edition of the Champions Trophy.

The tournament will be replaced by the Hockey Pro League (HPL) in 2019.

Apart from hosts the Netherlands, Australia, Argentina, Belgium, India and Pakistan are taking part in the tournament from June 23 to July 1.

The match between Pakistan and Australia will kick off at 5pm Pakistan Standard Time.

Pakistan squad for Champions Trophy 2018

M Rizwan Sr (captain), Imran Butt, Amjad Ali, M Irfan Sr, Mubashir Ali, Aleem Bilal, Ammad Shakeel Butt, Touseeq Arshad, Rashid Mahmood, Tasawar Abbas, Abu Bakar, M Irfan Jr, Arslan Qadir, Umar Bhutta, Shafqat Rasool, Ali Shan, Azfar Yaqoob and Aijaz Ahmed.

Geo TV

Briels hits the 300-cap mark for Belgium’s Red lions


©: Frank Uijlenbroek/world Sport Pics

Oranje-Rood’s Thomas Briels played a key role for Belgium in their spectacular 3-3 draw with Australia on the opening day of the Champions Trophy in Breda.

Elsewhere, a goal from Mannheimer HC’s Gonzalo Peillat helped Argentina come back from behind to beat the Netherlands 2-1 while India head the table on goal difference after a 4-0 win over Pakistan.

In Belgium’s game, Briels' cross into the circle from the right was not effectively cleared by Australia, with Racing Club de Bruxelles’ Cedric Charlier pouncing from close range to give the Red Lions the early advantage of the 14-time Champions Trophy winners.

However, the Kookaburras soon showed why they are the top ranked team in the game by scoring twice in two minutes, as open play strikes from Trent Mitton and Lachlan Sharp turned the match on its head.

The momentum shifted back Belgium’s way when they took a 3-2 lead thanks to field goals from Arthur de Sloover and Tom Boon, but a low penalty corner drag flick from Australia’s Jeremy Hayward ten minutes from the end made it 3-3 and ensured that the points were shared.

"I thought it was a really good game, a high level game and it could have gone either way”, said Belgium captain Briels after the match. “I think we were the better team in the third quarter and could maybe have scored more goals, but I think both teams were quite lucky to get away with a draw.”

On making his landmark 300th appearance, Briels said: “It has been 11 years and I haven’t really been counting, and the years have gone past very fast. I’m very proud and always happy to play for Belgium. We have a great team and we hope to bring home a trophy.”

After India’s initial win, it was the Dutch who took the early advantage in the second game with AH&BC Amsterdam’s Mirco Pruijser firing his side into the lead.

Penalty corner master Peillat restored parity with a blistering flick into the roof of the net four minutes after half time ahead before Paredes’ late winner.

And it was Los Leones who emerged triumphant, claiming a 2-1 victory thanks to a late strike from Matias Paredes, who forced home from close range with 45 seconds left on the clock.

Argentina’s Pedro Ibarra said: “I think we played a good game but it was difficult, especially being the first game of the tournament as we were a little bit nervous. It is good to get a victory against Holland in Holland, it is a really good start for us.”

Sunday’s action sees India face Argentina, the Netherlands meet Belgium and Australia take on Pakistan.

Euro Hockey League media release

Hockey India congratulates Sardar Singh for 300th international cap

New Delhi [India]: Hockey India on Sunday lauded stalwart midfielder Sardar Singh on completing 300 international caps for India.

The 31-year-old achieved this milestone during India's second round robin match against Argentina at the on-going Rabobank Men's Hockey Champions Trophy Breda, 2018.

Expressing delight over the achievement, the former skipper said that it was a proud moment for him. He further thanked his teammates for the constant support and emphasised that he was enjoying the pressure of proving himself yet again on the playing field.

"It is really a proud moment for me. It seems like I have come a full circle as I had started my career under Harendra Singh as my Coach in the Junior India Team and now I play my 300th match under his Coaching for the Indian side," Sardar Singh said.

"I thank my teammates for their support and inspiration. We work as one family to achieve our goals and targets. At this point in my career, I am enjoying the pressure of wanting to prove myself again and have paid a lot of attention to my fitness under scientific advisor Robin Arkell in the previous two camps before arriving for the Rabobank Men's Hockey Champions Trophy Breda 2018," he added.

Sardar was awarded player of the tournament in the 2012 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, 2012 Summer Olympics Qualifiers, and 2010 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

In 2010, he was included in the 2010 and 2011 FIH All-Star Team and won the Asian Men Player of the Year 2012.

His long list of achievements for the Indian team include Silver medal at the 2010 and 2014 Commonwealth Games, two Asia Cup Gold (in 2007 and 2017) and silver (2013), Gold at the 2014 Asian Games, bronze at the World League final in Raipur 2015 and silver medal at the 2011 Champions Challenge.

He was conferred with the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award in 2017 and was earlier awarded the Padma Shri in 2015.

Lauding his impressive career, Md Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General, Hockey India said, "It takes tremendous commitment and sacrifice to play 300 International matches for India. I congratulate Sardar Singh on achieving this milestone. He has been a true source of inspiration for thousands of young hockey players across the country and his popularity is worldwide as he is acknowledged for his humility and great stick work and the field."

"There is plenty that young players in the Indian team can learn from him and I am sure his contribution to Indian hockey will be remembered for a long time. I wish him and the Indian team the very best in this important year of hockey," he added.

Born to a humble farmer's family, the mid-fielder played his first international match with the junior national team during India's 2003-04 tour of Poland. He made his Senior India debut in 2006 against Pakistan at the bilateral series and also led the Indian team at the 2008 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

Outlook India

Hockey Series Open - Singapore 2018 (Men) - Day 2
Singapore (SGP)

HKG v TPE (RR)     2 - 5
SGP v MYA (RR)     2 - 0
INA v THA (RR)     0 - 6

Pool Standings

Hockey Series Open - Singapore 2018 (Women) - Day 2
Singapore (SGP)

MAS v HKG (RR)     10 - 0
INA v KAZ (RR)     0 - 8
THA v SGP (RR)     1 - 0

Pool standings

FIH Match Centre

Not shopping but scoring spree for hockey team

By Aftar Singh



KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia continued their scoring spree in the women’s World Hockey Series in Singapore by trouncing Hong Kong 10-0 at the Sengkang hockey stadium.

It was Malaysia’s second big win in as many days. In their opening match on Saturday they thrashed Indonesia 18-0.

Penalty corner specialist Nuraini Abdul Rashid (pic) continued her scoring act yesterday by netting two goals in the 19th and 48th minutes, to add to her hattrick in the match against Indonesia.

Nur Amirah Shakirah Zulkifli (17th, 46th) and skipper Siti Noor Amarina Ruhani (53rd, 57th) scored a brace each while the other scorers were Fatin Shafika Mohd Shukri (7th), Fazilla Sylvester Silin (22nd), Nadiah Hanis Onn (32nd) and Nuraslinda Said (42nd).

The 28-year-old Nuraini was pleased with her performance especially having converted five penalty corners in two matches.

“I believe that I can convert more penalty corners. I need to be more accurate with my drag flicks.”

“It was a good start for us in the first two matches in the tournament but our challenge will come from the next two matches.

“We have one day to rest before we face Kazakhstan on Tuesday and Thailand on Wednesday,” said Nuraini.

Malaysia will wrap up the round robin fixtures against Singapore on June 29.

Kazakhstan also registered their second win by outplaying Indonesia 8-0 while Thailand edged Singapore by a solitary goal for their second win.

The Star of Malaysia

Hockey Open Series more important than Commonwealths - Wales coach Zak Jones

Wales finished ninth at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia's Gold Coast

By Tom Brown


Team Wales men's hockey team

Wales head coach Zak Jones says the new Open Series will have more long-term significance than last April's ninth-place Commonwealth Games finish.

The five team round-robin tournament takes place in Zagreb, Croatia from 25-30 June.

The top two go through to the next round of the Open Series in 2019.

"While the Commonwealths have all the kudos and everything that goes with it, we don't get any ranking points for it," Jones told BBC Sport Wales.

"They dictate long term whether we go to [major] tournaments.

"In terms of the overall picture, this Open Series tournament is far more important [than the Commonwealths]."

The Open Series replaces the World League. Wales finished fourth in the second round of the 2017 World League - helping them climb eight places to 24th in the world.

While Wales are improving, Jones says their first Open Series opponents - Austria, Slovakia, Switzerland and hosts Croatia - are all getting stronger too.

"We know we're one of the teams up there to be shot at," he said.

"Hockey's getting bigger around the world and all the teams are improving.

"The target is to ensure we get to the next round and try to win the tournament, but we know it's not going to be easy."

Wales' opening game is against Slovakia at 16:30 BST on Monday, 25 June.

Goalkeeper David Kettle - who recently spoke out about his "relentless" battle with depression - will win a record 103rd cap for Wales.

It will also be a first major tournament appearance for defender Eddy Evans and 17-year-old forward Rhys Bradshaw.

Wales fixtures:

Wales v Slovakia (Mon, 25 June; 16:30 BST)
Wales v Austria (Tue, 26 June; 18:30 BST)
Wales v Switzerland (Thu, 28 June; 18:30 BST)
Wales v Croatia (Sat, 30 June; 18:30 BST)

Wales squad:

GK David Kettle (Teddington), James Fortnam (Cardiff & Met); DEF Gareth Furlong (Surbiton), Dan Kyriakides (Reading), Hywel Jones (University of Birmingham), Ioan Wall (Cardiff & Met), Eddy Evans (Cardiff & Met); SC Jacob Draper (Cardiff & Met), Lewis Prosser (capt, Surbiton), Luke Hawker (capt, Cardiff & Met); MF Rupert Shipperley (Hampstead & Westminster), Alf Dinnie (Cardiff & Met); MF/FWD Dale Hutchinson (Reading), Owain Dolan-Gray (Reading), Joe Naughalty (Brighton & Hove); FWD Ben Francis (Reading), James Carson (Reading), Rhys Bradshaw (Cardiff & Met)

BBC Sport

Green Army Fall 3-0 To World Number 6 Germany



Nikki Evans, captaining the Green Army today, got Ireland off to the brighter start as she linked up nicely with Deirdre Duke to set Katie Mullan up for the shot at the top of the circle but Nathalie Kubalski made an early save. Moments later and Germany had a chance of their own manufactured by Lisa Altenburg as she chipped the ball over Grace O’Flanagan but Shirley McCay was on the line to rise up and bat the ball away from goal. Naomi Carroll chased an aerial almost the length of the pitch into the corner and sent a cross into the box but the diving Duke was inches away from getting the vital touch. Germany were awarded a stroke in the 12thminute, for what was potentially back stick by an Irish defender, but Nike Lorenz fired the ball into the crossbar. The hosts upped the pressure and got their just reward when Alisa Vivot got a deflection in front of O’Flanagan from Altenburg’s initial reverse strike. A well-worked team move from Ireland saw Anna O’Flanagan nearly pull her side level; Hannah Matthews swept the ball to Sarah Torrans who slipped it to Emily Beatty for the pass to Nikki Evans but the ball into the circle was well read by Kubalski who did enough to throw off the waiting O’Flanagan at the back post. Germany racked up 3 penalty corners but their second goal came from a break into the circle that saw Vivot fed the ball on the right-hand side and send a powerful strike into the goal to make it 2-0 moments before the half time whistle.

Another penalty corner for Germany went amiss as the straight strike from the top of the circle was saved by O’Flanagan. But Germany rarely relinquished possession in the second half and Altenburg got her deserved goal and Germany’s third. A defensive error saw Franzisca Hauke pick up the ball and send a reverse shot goalbound but O’Flanagan made a great save, Altenburg however was first to the rebound and flicked the ball into the back board. Evans created the best chance for the Irish in the second half as she found her way into the circle but was soon swarmed on by 4 defenders before she could get the shot away. Another good save from O’Flanagan denied a snap shot by Charlotte Stapenhorst in the dying minutes of the game and the world number 6 ran out 3-0 victors.

The Green Army are next in action in UCC against Japan on July 4th, 6thand 7th. But before that, the World Cup squad will be announced on Tuesday (June 26th) at approx. midday and will be live streamed on Hockey Ireland’s Youtube channel.

Match Series, Dusseldorf

Ireland 0
Germany 3 (A Vivot x2, L Altenburg)

Starting: G O’Flanagan, Y O’Byrne, N Evans (Captain), K Mullan, S McCay, L Colvin, H Matthews, S Torrans, A O’Flanagan, Z Wilson, D Duke

Subs: E Tice, N Carroll, E Beatty, S Loughran, A McFerran, C Watkins, A Meeke

Irish Hockey Association media release

USMNT Falls to France in First Two Test Games of Europe Summer Training Tour



LILLE, France - The U.S. Men's National Team's first week of their Europe Summer Training Tour culminated with two friendly test matches against FIH Hero World Ranked No. 18 France. After being one week removed from the Hockey Series Open in Salamanca, Mexico, the USMNT gathered in Lillie, France at the training center of the France Men's National Team, where their focus was must more technical, working on individual skills as the month progresses.
 
On Saturday the team lined up against France in what appeared to be a fairly even contest. A slight change in the defensive shape and structure was implemented by USMNT Head Coach Rutger Wiese and his coaching staff to allow for future consistency. France struck quickly with a goal coming in the first few minutes and added another in the second quarter. USA got on the scoreboard when a long ball from the back found Kei Kaeppeler (Stuttgart, Germany), new member to the USMNT, who released it from the right side 30-yard line into the circle where Paul Singh (Simi Valley, Calif.) took a shot that was eventually put in by Christian De Angelis (Doylestown, Pa.). France scored on two more occasions in the third quarter and held a 4-1 lead until a penalty corner from Aki Kaeppeler (Stuttgart, Germany) gave France's goalkeeper no chance to make a high stick save. The final score stood at 4-2 for France.
 
On Sunday afternoon the venue for the second match was at the Lille Metropolitan HC. The new assignments in marking and maintaining space for Team USA was still a struggle as France came to play in front of their home crowd, putting four goals in before the half. A few adjustments were made at half time and USA controlled the last two quarters. Sadly an errant back pass was converted into a goal and then a severe backhand also found the back of the net with the end result being 6-0.
 
The U.S. Men's National Team will have a few days off before they continue their training in Madrid in preparation for three matches against No. 8 Spain starting on Tuesday, July 3. Playing against these highly ranked teams will allow the USMNT to see exactly where they can improve.

USFHA media release

Spain tour good preparation for Women's Hockey World Cup: Sjoerd Marijne

NEW DELHI: Women's hockey team chief coach Sjoerd Marijne said the just-concluded Spain tour has been an ideal preparation for India ahead of next month's FIH World Cup in London.

Marijne believes the Indian girls have raised their level in recent times and will now have the chance to fine-tune their fitness levels and speed when they regroup for the national camp in Bengaluru on Tuesday.

"Our team's performance during the Spain Tour showed that we are raising our levels at the right time and that the players are adjusting well to the way we intend to play. In the upcoming three weeks we will be focusing on fine-tuning our fitness levels and maintaining speed in our play throughout 60 minutes," said Marijne.

"I believe that the players showed a good mentality throughout the five matches in Spain and experienced what we need to do to play at a high level against a tactically strong opposition.

"We will now take the last step in working on our fitness and speed which will prepare us perfectly for the first match against England at the Women's World Cup in London ," the Dutchman ahead of the national camp.

Hockey India on Sunday named 48 players for the senior women's national camp to commence at the Sports Authority of India South Centre in Bengaluru on Tuesday ahead of the World Cup to be held in London, starting July 21.

The Indian women's team has recently returned from their Spain Tour where they played five matches against the host nation. World no. 10 India registered two victories, beating the world no. 11 Spanish team 3-2 in the third match and 4-1 in the fifth match, while drawing the second match 1-1.

National Campers List:

Goalkeepers
Savita, Rajani Etimarpu, Swati, Chanchal, Sonal Minj, Jaspreet Kaur

Defenders
Deep Grace Ekka, Sunita Lakra, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam , Gurjit Kaur, Rashmita Minz, Suman Devi Thoudam, Deepika, Neelu Dadiya, Mahima Choudhary, Kanika Raj, Manmeet Kaur, S.P. Kruthika,, Nisha

Midfielders
Nikki Pradhan, Monika, Lilima Minz, Namita Toppo, Neha Goyal, Udita, Manpreet Kaur, Jyoti, Ramwala Maitri, Anuja Singh, Anjali HR, Shyama Tidgam, Sonika, Puja Yadav, Karishma Yadav

Forwards
Rani, Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, Navjot Kaur, Rajwinder Kaur, Vandana Katariya, Anupa Barla, Priyanka Wankhede, Preeti Dubey, Reena Khokhar, Siddhi Singh, Leelavathy Mallamada Jaya, Soundarya Yendala, Birajini Ekka

The Times of India