New Delhi, Oct 13 – For decades, India was the world’s hockey powerhouse. The men’s team captured eight Olympic golds, six in a row from 1928 to 1956, plus a silver and four bronzes – a total of 13 medals that set the benchmark for the sport.
Ashok Kumar, a 1972 Olympic silver medallist and 1975 World Cup champion, reflects on that legacy. He remembers that in 1928, the team’s first Olympic gold was won with legendary player Dhyan Chand on the field. “That was the start of a glorious journey,” he says. “We showed the world our skill and flair. Celebrating 100 years in hockey is a huge achievement.”
Kumar also played a key role in India’s sole World Cup win in 1975 in Kuala Lumpur, scoring the decisive goal against Pakistan. He earned medals at every major world stage – a bronze in 1971 (Barcelona) and a silver in 1973 (Amsterdam). “Only a handful of players have all three World Cup medals,” he notes. “Back then, hockey was as popular as cricket today. The country followed us closely, and everyone loved to play the game.”
The past 70 years have seen a shift. After four decades of no Olympic medals, India finally earned a bronze in 2020 at Tokyo, and again a bronze in 2024 in Paris. “The current team has confidence, depth and skill,” Kumar believes. “Both the men’s and women’s squads are ready to shine on the world stage.”
The story of Indian hockey – from Dhyan Chand’s legendary stick-play to modern stars – continues as the national teams aim for Olympic glory in Paris and beyond.
Source: ianslive
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