New Delhi: The Indian Under-18 men’s and women’s hockey teams were accorded a thunderous and warm welcome at the Indira Gandhi International Airport upon their return from a highly successful campaign at the Asia Cup.
As the players walked out wearing their medals, they were greeted with garlands, and the tricolor amidst loud chants cheering with dhol.
The Indian U-18 men’s team returned with the ultimate prize, clinching a gold medal, while the spirited women’s team locked in a podium finish with a bronze medal finish.
The dual success has triggered widespread celebration, drawing high praise from the country’s top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking on the sidelines of the grand reception, men’s head coach and hockey icon Sardar Singh noted that the overwhelming public reception and words of encouragement from the Prime Minister would act as a massive psychological booster for the junior stars.
On the other hand, women’s head coach Rani Rampal and captain Sweety Kujur reflected on their journey, calling the podium finish a stepping stone for the long international road ahead while remaining determined to iron out chinks in their armor.
The bronze medal marks a strong finish to India’s campaign at the Women’s U18 Asia Cup 2026, with the team showcasing its attacking quality, scoring 36 goals, defensive resilience and immense promise throughout the tournament.
To recognise the teams’ achievements, Hockey India announced a cash award of Rs 3 lakh for each player of the gold medal-winning Indian U-18 Men’s Hockey Team and Rs 1.5 lakh for each member of the support staff.
It also announced a cash award of Rs 1 lakh for each player of the Indian U-18 Women’s Hockey Team, who secured the bronze medal earlier in the day, along with Rs 50,000 for each member of the support staff.
(IANS)
