Lahiri maintains lead after a fighting 70 in round two

  Anirban Lahiri 

 Varun Parikh

Ahmedabad, January 30, 2014: Anirban Lahiri of Bangalore continued in the lead in round two of the PGTI Ahmedabad Masters presented by Kalhaar Blues & Greens. Lahiri posted a fighting two-under-70 on Thursday to stay two-strokes ahead of the rest of the field at 10-under-134. Faridabad’s Abhinav Lohan was placed second at eight-under-136 after he returned a brilliant 68 on day two.

The cut fell at seven-over-151. Fifty-five professionals and three amateurs made the cut.

Anirban Lahiri (64-70), the overnight leader by two shots, had a mixed first-nine as he picked up four birdies but also dropped a triple-bogey on the 14th. Anirban, a 10th tee starter on Thursday, was off to a flying start with birdies on the 12th and 13th but then found the water twice and three-putted to drop a triple-bogey on the 14th. He came back well with two long birdie putts on the 15th and 16th.  

Lahiri started his second-nine with a bogey on the first but recovered once again courtesy an eagle on the par-5 fifth where his second shot landed three feet from the flag. Anirban made bogey-birdie on the seventh and eighth to end up with a brave 70 in round two.

Anirban said, “I had some flashes of brilliance today but also made some unnecessary errors. I tried a bit too much with my drive into the wind on the 14thand that led to a terrible swing which resulted in the ball landing in the water. However, I was happy with my good temperament that helped me come back well with birdies on the next two holes. I couldn’t recover from a bad lie on the first hole and that led to a bogey which disturbed my momentum. But the eagle on the fifth came at the right time for me and got me back in the right frame of mind. I was quite pleased with my ability to bounce back today. That was one positive aspect that I’ll take forward from round two.”

   

Abhinav Lohan (68-68), who was overnight joint sixth, didn’t have a great start to the day as he bogeyed the first hole where he failed to get out of the bunker in the first attempt. The 25-year-old rallied with birdies on the seventh and eighth but he was back to one-under for the day after dropping shots on the ninth and 10th.

Abhinav, a part of the Indian quartet that won the team silver medal at the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games, had a much better back-nine. He converted putts from 10 to 15 feet for birdies on the 12th and 14th. Lohan signed off in style with birdies on the last three holes that featured a chip-in on the 16th and a 20-feet putt on the 17th.

“The wind was in play today and the pins were tougher as compared to yesterday, so scoring was not that easy. I started off poorly and really got going on the back-nine. I enjoyed a good stretch over the last seven holes as I converted most of the putts and managed five birdies. Closing with birdies on the last three holes was a big morale-booster,” said Lohan, who had finished 13th on the 2013 Rolex Rankings.

He added, “I’m playing at Kalhaar Blues & Greens for the first time and it’s been a wonderful experience as the design of the course matches world standards. I find the par-3 16th hole quite challenging due to its layout.”

Chandigarh’s Sujjan Singh fired the day’s best score of 67 that placed him in tied third at four-under-140 along with Rahil Gangjee of Kolkata, Kanishk Madan of Delhi, Panchkula’s Angad Cheema and Mhow golfer Om Prakash Chouhan.

Divyanshu Bajaj of Kolkata made a hole-in-one on the 16th where his six-iron tee shot pitched a yard short of the hole and landed in the cup after the second bounce. Bajaj fired a three-under-69 on Thursday to take his total score to two-over-146. He is now placed tied 21st.

Fifteen-year-old Varun Parikh of Ahmedabad makes the cut

Fifteen-year-old amateur Varun Parikh of Ahmedabad kept the local interest alive as he was one of the three amateurs to make the cut. Varun shot scores of 75 and 75 in the first two rounds to total six-over-150 and be placed tied 48th at the halfway stage. Parikh made two birdies and five bogeys in his second round.

Varun said, “It feels great to make the cut in my very first appearance in a professional event and that too in the presence of such big names in the field. I sank a 30-footer for birdie on the 17th today and holed a 10-feet putt for my other birdie on the ninth. I’ve been striking it well over the last two days and that has helped me earn my place in the final two rounds.”

Delhi Waveriders blank Kalinga Lancers 5-0 in HHIL 2014

New Delhi, Jan 30, 2014: Hosts Delhi Waveriders thrashed debutants Kalinga Lancers 5-0 to register their second win in the second edition of the Hero Hockey India League League (HHIL) at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi today.

Rupinderpal Singh (13th, 29th minutes) converted two pnealty corners for the hosts, while the other goals came from the sticks of Matt Gohdes (21st), Danish Mujtaba (48th) and Lloyd Norris Jones (53rd).

The Waveriders controlled the match from start to finish and created numerous scoring chances.

The Lancers yet again were slow to get off the blocks and struggled to get their footing in the match. The Waveriders were the dominant side on display as they controlled the proceedings throughout the entire 70 minutes.

The Waveriders started on an attacking note against the less fancied Kalinga Lancers and surged ahead in the 13th minute when Rupinderpal scored from a penalty corner to the right of the visitor's goalie Harjot Singh. Eight minutes later, the Waveriders doubled their lead througth Ghodes (21st), who beat two Kalinga defenders to flick the ball inside the net.

  Minutes later, the visitors earned two penalty corners in succession but wasted both.

The Waveriders seized on the opportunities that came their way and extended their lead soon when Rupinder (29th) converted another penalty corner to go into the midway break with a comfortable 3-0 lead.
The Wizards continued to dominate the contest after the change ef ends and scored two more field goals in a span of six minutes through Mujtaba and Jones to pocket the contest in their favour.

The Waveriders will next play Jaypee Punjab Warriors at the same venue tomorrow, while Kalinga Lancers will be up against Dabur Mumbai Magicians in their home ground at Bhubaneswar on Sunday.

Hero Goal of the match winner Llyod Norris Jones, Delhi Waveriders

YES Bank Garv Award winner – Rupinder Pal Singh, Delhi Waveriders

Man of the Match – Gurbaj Singh, Delhi Waveriders

Speaking on the performance by the team Cedric D’Souza said “every match has to be taken on its full strength. All teams are tough in their own way and they have their own skills in place”.

Speaking on the teams performance, Kalinga Lacers Coach, Terry Walsh said “the scorelines were disappointing today but there was lot of learning’s today. There were critical moments where we did not perform well and lacked in execution which costed us the game today. We are trying various tactics and strategies and hoping to make a comeback in the next game against Dabur Mumbai Magicians. We will get better as we grow.

By virtue of this win, the Delhi outfit has leapfrogged to the top of the standings with 11 points from three matches, while Kalinga Lancers are yet to open their account in the tournament.

Press release and photos: HIL

Skipper Ragunath’s hat-trick hands UP Wizards second consecutive win

Mumbai, January 29, 2014: Captain VR Raghunath led from the front and slammed a hat-trick to help Uttar Pradesh Wizards continue their unbeaten run in the tournament. Uttar Pradesh Wizards came from behind 5-3 to register a win over Dabur Mumbai Magicians in a round-robin league match of the second edition of Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) at the Mahindra Hockey Stadium in Mumbai today.

After failing to seize their opportunities in the first two quarters, the Uttar Pradesh Wizards took control of the game after halftime and pumped in as many as four goals to make a stunning comeback in the game. 

The match started on a slow pace as both the sides struggled to get their footing initially.

Dabur Mumbai Magicians, however, seized the first real opportunity that came their way through Gurjinder Singh (12th minute) who scored from their first penalty corner.

The Uttar Pradesh Wizards responded quickly and managed to earn two penalty corners in succession, the second of which resulted in a penalty stroke but the home team goalkeeper P R Sreejesh came up with a brilliant save with his stick to keep a clean slate for his side in the opening quarter.

Dabur Mumbai Magicians added salt to Uttar Pradesh Wizards’ wounds when Australian Glenn Turner converted another penalty corner in the 18th minute to take a 2-0 lead.

After the hosts wasted a set piece, the Uttar Pradesh Wizards got two penalty corners in quick time, the second of which was converted by captain V R Raghunath (28th minute) to reduce the margin.

The visitors were the better side on display in the opening 35 minutes as they managed to earn as many as six penalty corners out of which they converted just one to help Dabur Mumbai Magicians go into the midway break with a slender 2-1 lead.

Both the teams came out full throttle after the crossover and threatened each other’s citadel with persistent attacks.

But Uttar Pradesh Wizards capitalized on their chances and just five minutes into the third quarter, Raghunath (41st  minute) was yet again at the thick of things as he found the back of the opposition net for the second time from a penalty corner to level the scores.

 Uttar Pradesh Wizards took the lead for the first time in the game through Siddharth Shanker’s (52nd)  field goal before Raghunath (56rth minute)converted yet another penalty corner to register his first hat-trick in HHIL 2014.

With Uttar Pradesh Wizards on full flow the Dabur Mumbai Magicians defense looked at sea in the last two quarters of the match.

Dabur Mumbai Magicians’ Sarvanjit Singh (57th minute) scored off a rebound after Gurjinder got the initial touch to add another goal to the home team's kitty.

But the visitors further extended their lead in the 59th minute when SK Uthappa deflected home to register his name in the score sheet.

The win, their second on the trot in the tournament, propelled Uttar Pradesh Wizards to the second position in the points table with 10 points from two games.

Dabur Mumbai Magicians, on the other hand, slumped to their second straight defeat in the tournament and are currently lying at the second last position in the six-team event with just two points.

The evening saw Sherlyn Chopra, Model/Bollywood Actress enthralling the crowd with her performance during the half time. She said while addressing the crowd, “If cricket is the religion of India, then hockey is the tradition of India.”

V R Raghunath received the Hero Goal of the Match, Yes Bank Garv and Man of the Match awards for his stupendous performance.

Captain of Uttar Pradesh Wizards,  V R Raghunath said, “Coaches are helping us hone our skills and we are learning a lot under their guidance. We had chances to score more goals but credit to the goal keeper of Mumbai who contained us. I am really excited as the match was very intense.”

Roelant Oltmans, Coach of Uttar Pradesh Wizards said, “There is lot of scope for improvement in the team. We are wasteful of penalty corners and need to convert more. Each game is a learning for the team and we take lot of lessons to improve our performance in subsequent matches.”

Gurjinder Singh from Dabur Mumbai Magicians said, “I am learning a lot from this tournament. Playing alongside seniors and against big players gives us lot of opportunities to gain more insight into the game. I am really impressed with Raghu’s goal today and will surely try to score a similar one some day.”

Uttar Pradesh Wizards will next host title holders Ranchi Rhinos at Lucknow in the opening match of Saturday's double-header, while Dabur Mumbai Magicians will travel to Bhubaneswar to play Kalinga Lancers in the second game of the day.

Press release and photos: HIL

Bihar flying disc team named

Patna, January 28, 2014: Flying Disc Association (Bihar) on Tuesday announced state teams for the 11th Senior National Championships to be held in Bhubaneswar from January 31 to February 2.

Men: Abhishek Kumar (captain), Abhik Raj, Ravi Tripathi, Mayank Kumar, Samir Raj, Sunil Kumar, Mintu Dey, Abhishek Raj, Sumit Chakraborty, Vikki Kumar, Jitu Kumar, Prashant Saurav, Rohit Kumar, Shubham Kumar and Satyendra Kumar (manager).

Women: Kajal Kumari (captain), Ritu Raj, Dipti Kumari, Isha Raj, Priyanka Singh, Ranjana Kumari, Prerana Singh and Babita Kumari (coach).

Lahiri dazzles with an eight-under-64, sets course record

Anirban Lahiri

Ahmedabad, January 29, 2014: Anirban Lahiri burnt the course with a dazzling eight-under-64 to take the round one lead at the PGTI Ahmedabad Masters presented by Kalhaar Blues & Greens, a PGTI Super Series event. The Bangalorean’s round one exploits helped him set the course record at the Kalhaar Blues and Greens Golf Club which is staging its first ever professional event. Angad Cheema of Panchkula posted a creditable six-under-66 to lie second on day one of the PGTI’s season-opener for 2014.

Anirban Lahiri was on a roll from the fifth hole onwards where he sank his first birdie from 10 feet. The 26-year-old went on a birdie-spree picking up strokes on six consecutive holes from the seventh to the 12th. He landed it within five feet on the eighth and 10th and knocked down 15-footers on the ninth and 11th. Anirban, who recently finished third on the 2013 Asian Tour Order of Merit, moved to nine-under for the day after birdies on the 14th and 15th. Lahiri closed with a bogey on the 18th after his tee shot landed in the bunker and rolled into the water.

“It was an unbelievable round. I didn’t expect to fire such a low number. I played the course for the first time during my practice round yesterday and was a little confused about some holes. Nonetheless, my phenomenal hitting and outstanding approach shots helped me end the day at eight-under. I felt I was a little lucky as there was hardly any wind today. It could’ve been a different story had the wind been in play. I was nine-under over a stretch of 11 holes from the fifth to the 15th. This is my personal best,” said Lahiri, the highest ranked Indian currently at World No. 105.

He added, “This is one of the best courses I have ever played at. The lay-out is comparable to world standards and the stretch from the 13th to the 16th can be very challenging if the wind is up. I’ve taken a lot of confidence from my performances last year as I not only recorded my best season on the Asian Tour but also won the last three tournaments that I played on the PGTI.”   

   

Angad Cheema and Anirban Lahiri’s mutual admiration     

Angad Cheema, playing in the same group as Anirban Lahiri, produced seven birdies and a lone bogey to fire a six-under-66 that placed him second. Cheema, who made three birdie putts from a range of 20 to 30 feet, seemed to be inspired by his playing partner Anirban Lahiri’s immaculate 64. Cheema said, “I learnt a lot playing with Anirban who is also a good friend. The quality of golf shots I witnessed from Anirban today helped lift my confidence as well. We were very relaxed and pulling each other’s leg while on the course.”

Lahiri, on the other hand, was all praise for Cheema’s putting. He said, “Angad came up with some unbelievable putts. If I was putting like him, I would be playing on the European Tour.”

Kanishk Madan gets over the disappointment of 2013

Kanish Madan fired a five-under-67 to be placed tied third after round one on Wednesday. Madan thus got over his disappointment from the end of last season. The Delhi golfer had bogeyed the last hole in the penultimate event of the season to miss out on a top-60 finish in the Rolex Rankings. This had resulted in Kanishk missing out his exemption from the Qualifying School and also prevented him from earning a spot at the PGTI’s year-end championship. Madan’s tied 26th finish at the Qualifying School earned him his card for the 2014 season. Kanishk made seven birdies against two bogeys in round one at Ahmedabad.

Om Prakash Chouhan of Mhow carded a superb five-under-67 to be placed tied third. Chouhan was eight-under from the third through the 12th thanks to eight birdies. This included a run of six straight birdies from the third to the eighth. Chouhan finally ended the day at five-under after stumbling with three bogeys over the last six holes.

Arjun Singh of Delhi joined Kanishk Madan and Om Prakash Chouhan in tied fourth.

Kolkata’s SSP Chowrasia, Abhinav Lohan of Faridabad and Delhi’s Pawan Kumar fired four-under-68 to occupy joint sixth place.

                                                                                              

Jaypee Punjab Warriors thrash Kalinga Lancers 7-3

Bhubaneswar, January 28: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat debutants Kalinga Lancers 7-3 to register their second consecutive win in the tournament and zoom to the top of the points table in the second edition of Hero Hockey India League at the newly-laid Astroturf of the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar today. This is the first time any team has attained a score of 7-3 in the Hero Hockey India League. In the inaugural season highest score was 6-4, where Delhi Waveriders have beaten Dabur Mumbai Magicians. 

The comprehensive victory gave Jaypee Punjab Warriors a bonus point and propelled the side to the top of the standings with 11 points from three games. Kalinga Lancers, however, returned empty-handed as they lost the match by a margin of more than two goals.

  

Kalinga Lancers, jointly owned by Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) and Mahanadi Coalfield Limited (MCL) and coached by Indian men’s team chief coach Terry Walsh, witnessed a nightmarish debut at the franchise-based league as the Wizards were in complete control of the game throughout the entire 70 minutes.

The newcomers in HHIL were on the back foot from the start as the Wizards rattled the Kalinga lancers defense with constant raids.  Kalinga Lancers looked rusty and struggled to control the rampaging visitors in the one-sided encounter.

It did not take long for Jaypee Punjab Warriors to go ahead through Dharamvir Singh (6th minute) who scored from a weak rebound off Kalinga Lancers goalie Tristan Clemons.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors upped their ante in the second quarter and pumped in four more goals in quick succession to increase their lead.

First Lucas Rey (23rd) scored from a rebound after the initial try was saved by Kalinga Lancers goalkeeper Clemons from Jaypee Wizards first penalty corner.  Star drag-flicker Sandeep Singh (29th minute) then converted another penalty corner to right of an out-stretched Tristan and then young Affan Yousuf (31st) and Australian Simon Orchard (33rd) scored through field efforts to take a commanding 5-0 lead at halftime.

Kalinga Lancers managed to pull one back three minutes into the third quarter when Gonzalo Peillat (38th) made use of their first penalty corner.

 But minutes later, Sandeep (40th) restored Wizards lead scoring his second goal of the day from another set piece.

Kalinga can take heart from the fact that they were bang on target with their penalty corner conversions as Peillat (43rd) scored from their second set piece to register his name in the scoresheet for the second time in the match.    

Jaypee Punjab Warriors scored another from a penalty corner, this time through captain Jamie Dwyer’s (51st) rebound before   Mandeep Antil (60th) perfectly deflected in Amir Khan’s pass to reduce the margin for Kalinga Lancers.

Hero Goal of the Match award was bagged by Jamie Dwyer while Yes Bank Garv award was given to Sandeep Singh. Dharamvir Singh was declared the Man of the Match.

Speaking on the win,

Terry Walsh, Coach of Kalinga Lancers said, “This was our first match and it took us some time to get a grip. We were a little defensive initially and paid the price for it. We made chances but team could not convert them in goals in the first half. By the time we came in second half, we were quite into the game.  I am sure we will improve as we progress in the Tournament.” 

Speaking to media, Prabodh Tirkey said, “We made lot of mistakes and were very defensive in our approach. We need to assess our shortcomings and improve upon them. This was only the first match but going forward I am sure the crowd will see more coordinated game.”

Jagbir Singh, Team Manager, Jaypee Punjab Warriors said, “I am delighted at the hat trick. We had good team combination today. We were able to build pressure right from the beginning and never game time to Kalinga Lancers to settle. They have good players too but we over powered them right from the beginning.”

Addressing the media, Affan Yousuf said, “It was a team effort and each player pitched in to get the win. We will now concentrate on the next match against Delhi Waveriders. The team is brilliant with players like Sardar Singh spearheading. We are however not worried as our plans are in place.”

Jaypee Punjab Warriors would be playing the Sardar Singh-led Delhi Waveriders in their next match at the capital’s Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium on Friday. 

Press release and photos: HIL

Trophies of Real Life Corporate Cup Cricket Tournament unveiled

Trophies of Real Life Corporate Cup Cricket Tournament were unveiled in Patna on January 27, 2014. 

Jackson’s late goal hands Ranchi Rhinos their first win in HHIL 2014

Ranchi, January 27, 2014: Defending champions Ranchi Rhinos rode on Ashley Jackson’s late penalty corner conversion to register their first win in the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) 2014 by beating Delhi Waveriders with a solitary goal in a keenly-contested league match at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi today.

It took the Rhinos 63 minutes to break the deadlock through Jackson, who converted a set-piece to open the hosts’ account in the second edition of HHIL.

With two last year’s finalists in action in reigning champions Ranchi Rhinos and runners-up Delhi Waveriders, it was expected to be a close contest and it turned out to be one as both the teams matched each other  stick by stick.

Still reeling from their 2-3 defeat at the hands of Uttar Pradesh Wizards in their tournament opener, the Ranchi Rhinos however started on a positive note and put Delhi Waveriders defense under pressure early on.

The hosts created a few bright openings in the beginning but their forward line led by star striker Mandeep Singh wasted the opportunities as the Delhi outfit displayed some stout defending.

As the match progressed the Delhi Waveriders slowly and steadily got their footing in the match and managed to earn their first real chance in the 17th  minute through a penalty corner which was brilliantly saved by Ranchi Rhinos goalkeeper Francisco Cortes to deny Rupinderpal Singh.

After some midfield slugfest, Amon Tirkey missed a golden opportunity for the Ranchi Rhinos when his reverse shot from inside the circle hit the side-board.

Few minutes later Akashdeep Singh and Talwinder Singh combined well to earn Delhi Waveriders a penalty corner but the visitors wasted the chance because of a bad push.

Ranchi Rhinos almost had thrice shots at the Delhi goal just at the stroke of halftime but all the three attempts were kept away by Delhi Waveriders goalkeeper Hamish McGreger as both the teams failed to break the ice at halftime.

The Rhinos continued to press for goals after the crossover and in the process earned another penalty corner but Jackson missed the target.

Ranchi custodian Cortes had a brilliant outing today as he produced numerous saves to keep his side in the hunt.

In the 62nd minute Delhi Waveriders threatened the Ranchi Rhinos defense with three attempts in succession but Cortes came up with a triple save to keep a clean slate. Cortes first saved twin tries from New Zealand striker Simon Child and then kept at bay Akshdeep’s hit from just inside the circle.

A minute later Jackson finally broke the ice when he made use of a penalty corner to send the home crowd into ruptures.

The Delhi Waveriders got a golden chance to equalize in the next minute but Andres Mir Bel’s attempt from a penalty corner went wide.

The win gave Ranchi Rhinos five points while Delhi Waveriders secured one point as per the rules of the tournament.

Ranchi Rhinos will next travel to Lucknow to face Uttar Pradesh Wizards on Saturday, while Delhi Waveriders will host league debutants Kalinga Lancers on Thursday.

Cedric D’Souza, Coach of Delhi Waveriders team said, “It was a close match. Though the first half belonged to Ranchi Rhinos, we played quite well in the second half. We did take chances but made mistakes like letting the Rhinos control the ball and not able to spring along passes. However, there is not much ground lost and we will be better prepared for subsequent matches.”

Sardar Singh, Captain of Delhi Waveriders said, “There were moments when we lost grip on the game. This costed us heavily. There were lessons to learn and going forward we will train more to ensure our win.”

Happy at winning on home ground, Gregg Clark, Coach of Ranchi Rhinos said, “I am quite happy with today’s team performance. They gave a tough fight to Delhi Waveriders. Manpreet is very versatile and he swerved the ball through the field.”

Manpreet Singh, Captain of Delhi Waveriders said, “Delhi is a good team and winning against them has boosted our morale. They tried very well but could not convert many chances. There need to be lot of thinking and training to ensure we win the future matches. We cannot underestimate any team.”

Press release and photos; HHIL

Jaypee Warriors looking at Kalinga Lancers for a win

Bhubaneswar, January 27, 2014: Post a big win against Dabur Mumbai Magicians, team Japyee Punjab Warriors is high on spirit and motivation and is looking at taking on Kalinga Lancers in the latter’s home ground. While Jaypee Punjab Warriors will be looking at carrying on their winning momentum it is yet to be seen how they will tackle a completely new team and a new ground. While the first two matches by the team was played in front of their home crowd, the team this time will be playing away from home and in front of a completely new audience. 

Speaking on their match against Kalinga Lancers, Jamie Dwyer, Captain of Jaypee Punjab Warriors said “We are very disappointed with the way we lost to Delhi in our first game. The match against Mumbai was a much better game and the team played a well coordinated game. We are looking forward for our next game against Kalinga Lancers and are fully prepared to use our strength to fight and win against them. While the team is new we are not taking them lightly and hence will not lose focus during our game with them.” 

Speaking on the team Barry Dancer, Coach, Jaypee Punjab Warriors said, “The team is geared up to meet the challenge of Kalinga Lancers. We know we will be playing on their home ground and in a city which is known for its love for hockey hence the crowd support will be huge for them. Except for few areas, I think the boys played well against Dabur Mumbai Magicians. We need to keep this momentum going and improve ourselves with every game in the tournament." 

Press release

Jaypee Punjab Warriors register first win

Mohali, January 26, 2014: Putting behind their last night’s defeat, Jaypee Punjab Warriors dished out a commendable performance to beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians 5-3 to register their first win in the second edition of the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) in Mohali today.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors made a promising start to the encounter and created trouble for the Dabur Mumbai Magicians defense from the onset. Agustin Mazzilli put Jaypee Punjab Warriors ahead in the seventh minute by scoring from a rebound after young Affan Yousuf’s initial shot was saved by Mumbai goalkeeper PR Sreejesh.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors got a golden opportunity to extend their lead minutes later when they earned a penalty corner but they failed to utilize the chance.

Undeterred by the goal, the Dabur Mumbai Magicians outfit came back strongly and scored two goals within a span of three minutes to take the lead. First Mark Gleghorne  (15th minute) converted a penalty corner  and then  Ravipal Singh (17th minute) scored a field goal to give Dabur Mumbai Magicians a 2-1 lead.

The Punjab side pressed hard for the equalizer in the second quarter and finally managed to get it in the 30th minute when Malak Singh scored with a field effort. But nine minutes later, Dabur Mumbai Magicians restored their lead through Vinaya Vakkaliga’s field strike.

But it was not to be Dabur Mumbai Magicians’ day as the Jaypee Punjab Warriors went all out thereafter and precisely converted three penalty corners to register their first win in the tournament.

Punjab’s star drag-flicker Sandeep Singh first converted a penalty corner in the 40th minute and then Australian Christopher Ciriello (47th) and Dharamvir Singh (67th) made use of two more set pieces to open Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ account in the points tally.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors, who had lost 1-3 to Delhi Waveriders in the tournament opener yesterday, secure five points from the win, while Dabur Mumbai Magicians garnered one point from the encounter.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors will next play debutants Kalinga Lancers in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, while Dabur Mumbai Magicians will be up against Uttar Pradesh Wizards in Mumbai on Wednesday. 

Jamie Dwyer, Captain of Jaypee Punjab Warriors said, “It was a great performance by the entire team and the win is a feel good factor. We were not able to win the last match against Delhi Waveriders but today the team played very well. Our attacks were good which put a lot of pressure on the opponent team. This coupled with great defence helped us sail through. Our aim is to play good hockey and aim to win every match we play.”

 Barry Dancer, Coach, Jaypee Punjab Warriors said in the press conference, “We were quick with our passes. Scoring two penalty corners was very important part of the match. Going forward also we will try to further improve upon our penalty corner conversions. Today Sandeep and Christopher scored which means we are beginning to get the combination right. Gurmail was also outstanding today. I have lot of hope from the younger lot and am sure they will prove me right.”

PR Sreejesh, Captain, Dabur Mumbai Magicians said, “Our team played well but we did a few mistake during the game. Team was very week in converting the penalty corners and there was lack of coordination between the players. In our next match we will try improve upon these mistakes and will try to do our best.”

MK Kaushik, Coach, Dabur Mumbai Magicians was in a pensive mood. He said, “Team’s performance was not up to the mark. There were many lapses in the game and cross coordination was also missing. We need to be very focused in the future matches to ensure our wins.”

Spirited UP Wizards stun Ranchi Rhinos 3-2 in HHIL 2014

Ranchi, January 26, 2014: Uttar Pradesh Wizards produced a spirited performance to register a 3-2 come-from-behind win over title holders Ranchi Rhinos to start their campaign on a resounding note at the second edition of the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) in Ranchi today. 

The Wizards, who finished third in the inaugural HHIL last year, twice came from a goal down to shock the home team. 

It was Ranchi Rhinos who started the match on a positive note and took the lead in the fourth minute through their star striker Mandeep Singh who found himself at the right place at the right time to slot the ball home to register his first goal of HHIL 2014. 

The Rhinos were the aggressive among the two sides and controlled the proceedings in the early part of the match. But Uttar Pradesh Wizards did not sit back and equalized in the 10th minute through Nikkin Thimmaiah who deflected home after trapping the ball at the goalmouth.

The Wizards got a golden opportunity to take the lead minutes later from their first penalty corner but Francisco Cortes came up with a fine save to deny captain V R Raghunath and both the teams ended the first quarter of 17-and-a-half minutes tied at 1-1.

In the second quarter, both the teams tried hard and were able to create a few bright opportunities but they failed to convert the chances into goal as both the teams went into the halftime locked at one-goal apiece. 

The break seemed to have worked wonders for the Wizards as they looked more purposeful and threatened the Ranchi goal with constant raids. 

But it was the Rhinos who once again surged ahead when Justin Reid Ross beautifully converted their second penalty corner to the left of Wizards’ Malaysian goalkeeper Kumar Subramaniam in the 46th minute. 

However, it did not take long for the Wizards to draw level for the second time in the match. V R Raghunath (51st minute) precisely executed a penalty corner five minutes later to the level the score at 2-2. 

The fourth and final quarter belonged to the visitors as Pradeep Mor scored a classy field goal with a brilliant hit from top of the circle in the 63rd minute to stun the packed crowd present at the 6000-capacity Astroturf Hockey Stadium here. 

By virtue of this win, the Roelant Oltmans-coached Uttar Pradesh Wizards pocketed five points, while the Rhinos will have to be content with one point as according to the rules of the tournament a defeat with a goal difference of two or less goals will give the losing side one point.

A triumphant Roelant Oltmans, Coach of Uttar Pradesh Wizards said, “The team played well though many players were new. I could see team effort on the ground which helped us convert chances. I do not have any strategy in place for the subsequent matches and will strategise one at a time. Our aim is to perform better than the opponent without putting much pressure on the team.” 

V R Raghunath, Captain of Uttar Pradesh Wizards said, “There have been quite a few changes in the team this time and we are still trying to create that balance amongst us. I am happy that the coordination helped us beat Ranchi Rhinos on their home turf. The atmosphere here was electrifying but we were determined too.” 

Gregg Clark, Coach of Ranchi Rhinos said in the post match conference, “We dominated the game though in the end the result did not favour us. Hope to repeat the same dominance in subsequent games as well. We missed many close chances which led to the loss. The next match is against a tough team. Delhi Waveriders is a formidable opponent and we will do our homework tonight to put together a winning formula for tomorrow.” 

Manpreet Singh, Captain of Ranchi Rhinos said, “We played well and tried to build coordination amongst us. I am disappointed at the loss and yet would like to learn lessons from the game so as to improve our performance in next match. The audience really supported us and hopefully we will live up to their expectations tomorrow.” 

The Rhinos will have to overcome from the defeat quickly as they host Delhi Waveriders at the same venue tomorrow, while Uttar Pradesh Wizards will travel to Mumbai to face Dabur Mumbai Magicians after two days rest on Wednesday.

Press release

Aditya enters AITA Talent Series quarterfinals

Patna, January 25, 2014: Aditya Vardhan of West Bengal beat Saahil Shivam of Bihar 6-0, 6-1 in the boys’ U-12 singles and entered the quarterfinals of the AITA Talent Series at the Patliputra Tennis Centre courts here.

Results:

BOY’S U-12 SINGLES (FIRST ROUND)

 KANISHK (BIH) BT. APURV AMRIT (BIH) 6-2, 6-1

ANSH TANDON (BIH) BT. ROHIL ROY (BIH) 6-1, 6-2

RISHI RAJ (BIH) BT. ARYAMAN PRASAD (BIH) 6-3, 6-2

PUSHKAR SINGH (BIH) BT. TAVISH SINGH (BIH) 6-2, 6-3

ANDY THAOSEN (ASM) BT. SATYAM SUJAY (BIH) 6-3, 6-2

SHUBHAM RAJ (BIH) BT. SARTHAK RAJ (BIH) 6-3, 6-3

 BOY’S U-12 SINGLES (PRE-QUARTER FINAL)

ADITYA VARDHAN (WB) BT. SAAHIL SHIVAM (BIH) 6-0, 6-1

RAKTAV DUTTA (ASM) BT. KANISHK (BIH) 6-0, 6-1

SAHIL BARIAR (BIH) BT. RISHI RAJ (BIH) 6-1, 6-1

AONJONEYA BANERJEE (WB) BT. PUSHKAR SINGH (BIH) 6-3 6-4

AMAAN WASIM (WB) BT. ANDY THAOSEN (ASM) 6-0, 6-0

SHUBHAM RAJ (BIH) BT. AAYAM SOURYA CHOUDHARY (BIH) 6-2, 6-3

UTKARSH SINGH (BIH) BT. UDAY JAIN (BIH) 6-0, 6-1

Bihar's Kajal is Junior National Carrom champion

Bihar's Kajal Kumari won the girls' singles title of the 42nd Junior National and Inter-State Carrom Championships held at Moradabad from January 16 to 22. Kajal beat Tuba of Chandigarh 13-2, 16-10 in the final.

Bihar girls win team title in Junior National Carrom

Bihar girls won the team championships title of the 42nd Junior National and Inter-State Carrom Championships held at Moradabad from January 16 to 22. In the final, Bihar beat Chandigarh 2-1.In the first singles Bihar's Kajal Kumari defeated Sania of Chandigardh in straigst sets 21-0, 21 -0. In the 2nd singles Nisha of Bihar lost to Tuba of Chandigarh 0-21, 7-17. The deciding double  was won by Rinki and Neha of Bihar against Priya and Nidhi of Chandigarh By 11-5, 21-4.

Wilson’s double sets up easy win for Delhi Waveriders

Mohali, January 25, 2014:  Australian Jason Wilson scored a brace as last year’s runners-up Delhi Waveriders defeated hosts Jaypee Punjab Warriors 3-1 in a hard-fought opening match to make a perfect start to their campaign at the second edition of the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) at the newly-built International Hockey Stadium at Mohali today.

With this win the Sardar Singh-led Waveriders, last year’s most consistent team, have pocketed five points from the encounter, while Punjab Warriors secured one point despite the loss because as per the tournament rules a defeat with goal difference of two or less goals will give the losing side one point.

If the Delhi outfit had the better share of possession in the first quarter of 17-and-half minutes, Punjab Warriors had more goal scoring chances.

In the barren but keenly-contested opening quarter both the teams had couple of chances to go up, including one penalty corner each but failed to break the deadlock.

The Waveriders were slow to start with but gained in confidence as the match progressed.

The Delhi side made a bright start to the second quarter and took the lead in the 29th minute through young striker Talwinder Singh’s field goal from top of the opposition circle to stun the large number of home crowd present at the stadium.

But the Waveriders’ joy was short lived as Affan Yousuf (33rd minute) equalized for Punjab four minutes later for Warriors by scoring from a goal-mouth melee.

Wilson restored Delhi’s lead in the 47th minute with another field strike from close range after he was set up by Akashdeep Singh.

Minutes later, Punjab Warriors got a penalty corner but their star drag-flicker was once again off the target.

Thereafter, Punjab Warriors pressed hard for the equalizer but the Waveriders defended stoutly to thwart any danger to their goal.

The Waveriders sealed in their favour when Wilson scored his second goal of the day just two minutes from the final hooter.

Elated at the win, Cedric D'souz, Coach of Delhi Waveriders said, “Overall performance of the team was fabulous. It was great team effort and entire team played well. Boys gave few soft corners in the game which we will try to eradicate in future. We will try to improve our defense and to keep putting pressure on the ball. It is the first match of the tournament and the team started on winning note. Now we will try to keep our team’s posture balanced since it is a small baby step toward final win.”

Sardar Singh, Captain of Delhi Waveriders said, “First game of every tournament is very significant for every team and we won it. It is a motivation booster for team. In the first half team was not very active but in the second half team came back in wonderful manner.  Team did make a few mistakes in the game as we did not get enough time for practice. We will improve upon these mistakes in future and will try to keep this spirit up.” 

Captain of Jaypee Punjab Warriors, Jamie Dwyer said, “We have to be much more focused. Some players lost focus today and we had to pay the price for it. We dominated in the first half today and were a better team. However, in the second half we were just not there. We have learnt from this match and we will improve upon our weak areas so that our win in subsequent matches is ensured.”

Barry Dancer, Coach of Jaypee Punjab Warriors said, “I am disappointed at the loss today. But, we are going to get better and better, game after game, that’s what the tournament is all about. We made vital errors. Our mistakes gave them an opportunity to score goals. We will analyse our mistakes today and make a turnaround. Sandeep Singh has the ability to make passes. He is world-class and I am sure he will score goals in coming matches.”

The Waveriders will next travel to Ranchi where they will face holders Ranchi Rhinos on Monday, while Punjab Warriors will host Dabur Mumbai Magicians at Mohali tomorrow.

In another match tomorrow, Ranchi Rhinos will host Uttar Pradesh Wizards.

HHIL release

2nd Hero Hockey India League begins

 Nargis Fakri performs in the opening ceremony of the second Hero Hockey India League in Mohali on January 25, 2014

Opening function of the 2nd Hero Hockey India League in Mohali on January 25, 2014.

New Delhi, January 25, 2014: The second season of Hero Hockey India League was inaugurated in a dazzling ceremony at Mohali today. Nitin Kukreja, Head of Sports Business, Star India pronounced the League 2014 open to a crowd packed stadium at Mohali. The trophy was unveiled to the city crowd by Olympian Pargat Singh, MLA, Government of Punjab and Secretary Hockey Punjab.

Broadcasted live by the official broadcasters of the League - Star Sports, the opening ceremony included all the required fanfare and masala, with Nargis Fakri, the Bollywood stunner of Rockstar fame, sizzling on famous lilting numbers like Balam Pichkari and Radha. Her performance was preceded by astounding laser show that covered the Mohali sky.

Gaurav, the mascot for Hero HIL also made his presence felt waving to the crowd during the opening ceremony. He represents the pride that is associated with Hockey in the country.

Dr Narinder Batra, Chairman, Hero HIL in his opening remarks said, ‘“I feel honored today that I am associated with Hockey and have been part of the efforts in ensuring that hockey becomes a household entertainment for everyone. When we started Hockey India League, we were not sure how will the League be accepted by the audience and fans. But after the tremendous success of 2013, this year we saw many Corporate coming forward and showing enthusiasm in associating with the game and believing in our faith. I would also like to thank Hero for their support towards the League and Star India for the investment that they are making towards the sport”

The laser show depicted a short montage on Hero Hockey India League and the six franchisees. It showed the first edition of Hockey India League with its results, goals scored by various players, the crowds that viewed the match LIVE at the 5 franchise stadiums and the first Champions lifting the trophy of Hockey India League - Ranchi Rhinos.

The excitement for the evening continued with US artists performing Human Slinky which was a colorful as well as a comical and high-energy act which left the crowd and viewers mesmerized. This was the first time such an was performed in India.

The ceremony ended on a high note and with a promise that Hero Hockey India League will be as entertaining and high voltage as its opening performance. 

Press release