Defending Champions Japan hockey team arrived for the
Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in Jharkhand capital Ranchi on Sunday.
Local dancers and artists accorded a warm welcome to
the team at the Birsa Munda Airport by presenting traditional dance and playing
folk music. The Japanese players too grooved on the beats of the drums with
traditional gamcha and flower garlands around their neck presented to them.
Meanwhile, in the highly anticipated Women’s Asian
Champions Trophy, which will take place at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro
Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi from October 27 to November 5, Japan are set to
face formidable rivals, including Malaysia, China, Korea, Thailand, and hosts
India.
The stage is set for a thrilling exhibition of
sporting prowess, where these Asian powerhouses will clash in a spectacular
showcase of skill, determination, and unwavering passion for the game.
Japan will be up against Malaysia in the tournament opener
on October 27.
Japan have a history of success in the Women’s Asian
Champions Trophy, having clinched the title in both the 2013 and 2021 editions
of this prestigious competition.
The Island nation also finished as runners-up in 2010,
while in 2011 and 2016, they finished third in the tournament. Their sights are
now firmly set on defending their hard-earned Asian title.
Speaking on the team’s preparation for the tournament,
Japan’s Captain Yuri said, “We are thoroughly prepared for this tournament and
deeply moved by the warm welcome we have received in Ranchi, which serves as a
tremendous source of motivation. While we have faced the participating teams in
recent Asian Games, we have elevated our game and crafted distinct strategies.
“Our team dynamics have evolved, and we anticipate
that all these improvements will be visible during this competition. Moreover,
our team’s hard work and unity are our greatest strengths, and we are ready to
give our all for our country. Our objective is to emerge as the top team in
this tournament and defend the elusive title,” she added.
The Korean team was scheduled to reach Ranchi on
October 23, the Malaysian team on October 24, and the China and Thailand teams
on October 25.
Teams from Bharat and Korea will stay at Hotel Park
Prime, teams from Japan and Thailand at Chanakya BNR and teams from Malaysia
and China will stay at Radisson Blu Hotel.
NE Watch Desk
