NEW DELHI: The Indian men's hockey team, fresh off their bronze medal victory at the Paris Olympics, were greeted with a hero's welcome in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. The team, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, participated in a roadshow organized to celebrate their historic achievement.
This bronze marks the first time in 52 years that India has secured back-to-back Olympic medals in men's hockey, replicating the feat achieved at the 1972 Munich Games. The team's victory over Spain in the bronze medal match, with a final score of 2-1, solidified their place in Indian sporting history.
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey expressed his gratitude to the Odisha government and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for the grand reception.
"I would like to thank the Odisha government and CM Mohan Charan Majhi for this honour...The way team India was welcomed, it happened for the first time that such grand welcome was given (to the Hockey team). The team had also performed well and created history after years by winning back-to-back medals (at the Paris Olympics)," Tirkey said.
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The Odisha government announced a cash reward of Rs 4 crore for player Amit Rohidas, who hails from the state. Each member of the team will receive Rs 15 lakh, while the support staff will be awarded Rs 10 lakh each.
Under the guidance of coach Craig Fulton, the team showcased resilience and determination throughout the tournament. Harmanpreet Singh emerged as a key player, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with 10 goals in eight matches. His two goals in the bronze medal match proved decisive in securing the victory.
Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, playing his final game for India, was visibly emotional as the team celebrated their triumph. This victory marks a significant milestone in Sreejesh's illustrious career and adds another chapter to India's rich hockey legacy.
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