New Delhi, July 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India Sub-Junior men’s hockey coach Sardar Singh has hailed his team’s remarkable unbeaten campaign in the inaugural AHF Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship 2026, saying the historic triumph will instil tremendous confidence in the country’s next generation of hockey players.
India defeated Pakistan 3-1 in the final at Muscat to lift the maiden Youth Hockey5s Asian title and secure qualification for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Sardar Singh credited the players’ discipline, commitment and months of dedicated preparation for the outstanding achievement. He said winning every match in the tournament, including three victories over Pakistan, highlighted the team’s consistency and determination.
The former India captain said the title would serve as a major confidence booster for the young squad as they prepare to compete on the world stage.
India dominated the championship throughout the competition, registering seven consecutive victories. The team began with wins over Bangladesh by 7-3 and 8-3 before overwhelming hosts Oman 14-0 and 10-1. They then defeated Pakistan twice in the Elite Pool by 7-4 and 7-3 margins before overcoming the same opponents 3-1 in the final.
Sardar Singh also acknowledged the support extended by Hockey India, saying the federation’s sustained investment in grassroots development and opportunities for young players had contributed significantly to the team’s success.
He also thanked Punjab University for hosting the national coaching camp, noting that its world-class training facilities and infrastructure provided the ideal environment for the squad’s preparations ahead of the tournament.
India’s victory not only secured the country’s first Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship crown but also earned the team a place in the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup, marking another significant milestone for Indian hockey.
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