India hammer South Africa in hockey World Cup

Bhubaneswar: India started their 2018 Hockey World Cup campaign on a thunderous note, hammering minnows South Africa 5-0 in the opener at the Kalinga Stadium here on Wednesday.

Three field goals and two penalty corners helped World No.5 India register a comprehensive win in the second match of the evening.

Simranjeet Singh scored two goals (43rd and 46th minute), while Lalit Upadhyay (45th minute), Akashdeep Singh (12th minute) and Mandeep Singh (10th minute) slammed a goal apiece to fashion India’s win.

The hosts will next face World No.3 Belgium in their second pool match on December 2.

Meanwhile Indian Men’s Hockey team’s opening match of the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup saw Vice-Captain Chinglensana Singh Kangujam achieve the milestone of completing 200 International Caps for the country. The experienced Midfielder had first made his International debut for the Senior team in 2011 when he represented the country at the Champions Challenge in South Africa.

The 26-year-old hails from Manipur and is known for his composure and authority in India’s midfield.

“Making my 200th International appearance for the Indian team gives me immense joy and satisfaction as it is something that I have always looked forward to. Representing the country for a prolonged period of time and helping in winning laurels throughout the world against the best teams is something that motivates me and I am proud to have achieved this milestone on the biggest stage i.e the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018. I would like to thank my family, my teammates, support staff and Hockey India, for always supporting me throughout my career and I look forward to achieving many glorious things for the nation,” said Chinglensana Singh Kangujam. (IANS)

Also Read: Sports News