Continental Glory? Now, Eyes on World Cup

India claim 4th Asia Cup title, qualify for the global event next year

- SWAROOP SWAMINATHAN @Rajgir

Two lesser-spotted things in Indian hockey happened within three hours of each other on a pleasant Sunday evening at Rajgir. Shortly before 7:00 PM, Hockey India (HI) president Dilip Tirkey was frank and honest about the direction of the men's hockey team ahead of a big 2026. "The coach and the support staff know we will continue to support them and they have our full and unconditional backing going into the World Cup and Asian Games," Tirkey said to a bunch of journalists. "I have full faith in what Craig Fulton and Co. are doing."

That was followed by one of the most clinical displays of hockey exhibited by the men's team in a major final. Even after some iffy performances in a few of the earlier stage matches, the South African seldom lost sight of the bigger picture. Winning the final. "You either win or you go home."