The Indian Under-18 men's and women's hockey teams were greeted with a grand reception at Delhi airport on Monday following their impressive performances at the U-18 Asia Cup 2026 in Japan. The men's side secured the gold medal with a commanding victory, while the women's team earned a bronze medal.
Men's Team Clinches Gold with Dominant Display
The Indian men's team emerged as champions after defeating hosts Japan 4-1 in the final held in Kakamigahara on Saturday. Ashish Tani Purti delivered a stellar hat-trick, finding the net in the 2nd, 28th, and 34th minutes. Captain Ketan Kushwaha added a crucial goal in the 30th minute, while Numada Gaku scored the only goal for Japan.
Speaking to ANI upon return, captain Ketan Kushwaha expressed his joy and credited the team's collective effort. "We are very happy as we won the Asia Cup in Japan. Everyone played well. We had a 40-day camp there. We are delighted to return to our country victorious. Whenever the team needed him, Ashish scored. We wanted to face Japan after losing once, and when we got the chance in the final, we were full of enthusiasm. Our next goal is to win gold at the Olympics," Kushwaha said.
Head coach Sardar Singh praised the team's preparation and unity. "I am very happy. Considering the limited time of 1-2 months, the team played exceptionally well. We focused on team bonding and international requirements, which helped them perform. The team executed the plan perfectly, leading to our success," Singh remarked.
Player of the Match Ashish Tani Purti highlighted the team's determination. "I'm very happy with our performance. We had a resolve that no matter which team we faced, we had to beat them. We were determined to defeat Japan even on their home ground," he said.
In recognition of the achievement, Hockey India announced a cash reward of Rs 3 lakh for each player of the gold medal-winning men's team and Rs 1.5 lakh for each support staff member.
Women's Team Secures Bronze with Convincing Win
The Indian women's U-18 team concluded their campaign on a high note by defeating Korea 3-0 in the bronze-medal match. Sandeepa Kumari, captain Sweety Kujur, and Nousheen Naz scored the goals, ensuring a podium finish for India.
The bronze medal capped a promising tournament for the Indian women, who scored 36 goals and showcased impressive attacking flair and defensive resilience throughout the competition.
Captain Sweety Kujur reflected on the lessons learned. "We played well as a team, but pressure got to us in crucial moments. Our coach taught us discipline, respect, and helping one another. There is a specific discipline in sports that elevates an athlete. Our goal for the next tournament is to aim higher. Having won bronze, we want to work harder and bring home gold," Kujur told ANI.
Head coach Rani Rampal acknowledged that the team had higher expectations but valued the experience gained. "Honestly, we expected gold based on our training. However, playing in a semi-final was a first for these girls. Achieving a podium finish in their first tournament is a huge boost. These players have immense potential and could compete in the 2032 and 2036 Olympics," Rampal said.
Praising striker Nousheen Naz, who scored 12 goals in the tournament, Rampal added, "Nousheen Naz deserves praise. Scoring 12 goals is no easy feat. But without good defence and teammates passing the ball, she wouldn't score; everyone contributes. Her future is bright, and she has the goal-scoring knack we need for the Indian team."
Naz expressed satisfaction with her performance and the team's overall showing. "I am happy with my performance. The team performed really well. Now, we plan to work even harder," she said.
Hockey India also announced a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh for each player of the bronze medal-winning women's team and Rs 50,000 for each support staff member.
