Golden girls

Indian women8217;s hockey, which was repeatedly written off during their slump after the high of Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2002, has...

Indian women8217;s hockey, which was repeatedly written off during their slump after the high of Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2002, has bounced back. Their 1-0 win over Japan in the final of the Asia Cup at the National Stadium today was their maiden triumph in this continental tournament and, more importantly, saw them book a berth for the Madrid World Cup in 2006.

Striker Jasjeet Kaur8217;s match-winning strike in the 64th minute after her fine run from the 25-yard line left the Japanese goalkeeper stumped and also signalled India8217;s re-entry into the hockey elite. With the defence holding its nerves against Japan8217;s repeated attacks, the Indian women showed big match temperament and an hunger to win.

Though the standard of competition at this tournament can be questioned 8211; China and Korea were not at their full strength 8211; but the title will certainly give the push the young team needed. And for coach MK Kaushik, who took over six months back, this was a just reward for his planning and strategy.

Though missing the Olympics was a downer but the two titles in the last three months 8211; the first being the Afro Asian gold 8211; will bring women8217;s hockey back in focus. And as was seen with the men8217;s team, the women8217;s on the basis of their showing on field can hope for more exposure and support from the officials.

The present squad is a perfect mix of youth and experience. And it is this combination which could help coach Kaushik plan the team8217;s future course. Skipper Suraj Lata Devi and goalkeeper Helen Mary are the two pillars on which the team is built. Suraj Lata remains the hub of all attacks while Helen has been rock solid at the back. Helen8217;s fine show in the tie-breaker at the Afro-Asian Games and the 8216;Best Goalkeeper Award8217; here has shown that India8217;s last line of defence is tough to tackle. But the find of the tournament was the day8217;s heroine Jasjeet. The 16-year-old despite her lack of experience scored in both semifinal and the final. Twenty-year-old Mamata Kharab, who returned to the national team after injury, showed maturity beyond her years. While her partner upfront Saba Anjum posed constant trouble for rival defence with her speed.

The Indian midfield is now looking solid with the presence of the 18-year-old Subhadra Pradhan, who made a strong contribution in this title triumph.

With so much potential in the team this win will certainly encourage the team to carry on the good work.