India withdrew from the 6th Womens Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament after playing their first match against Thailand due to Covid-related issues today. According to media reports, last-edition runners-up India were forced pull out after one of their players tested Covid positive.

In their opening match, India mauled Thailand 13-0 with Gurjit Kaur alone scoring five goals, and Lilima Minz and Jyoti sounding the board twice each at the Sunrise Stadium in Donghae City, South Korea on December 5. Malaysia also withdrew for the same reason without playing any match. Eventually, the tournament was reduced to four teams.

Japan emerged champions, defeating host South Korea 2-1 in the final, while China secured the bronze medal, beating Thailand 6-0 on December 12. A total of 50 goals were scored in nine matches.

Hockey India named an 18-member Indian team, including four from Odisha earlier on November 19. The Odisha players were: Deep Grace Ekka, Namita Toppo, Lillima Minz and Mariana Kujur. Mariana was selected in the Senior India Women team for the first time. FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, Savita led the team with Deep Grace as her deputy.

INDIAN SENIOR WOMEN TEAM: Goalkeepers: Savita (C), Rajani Etimarpu. Defenders: Deep Grace Ekka (VC), Udita, Nikki Pradhan, Gurjit Kaur. Midfielders: Nisha, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Namita Toppo, Monika, Neha, Jyoti, Lilima Minz. Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Vandana Katariya, Rajwinder Kaur, Mariana Kujur, Sonika. Chief Coach: Janneke Schopma.

RESULT:
December 5: India (Gurjit Kaur 2-PS, 14-PC, 24-PC, 25-PC, 58-PF; Vandana Katariya 7-FG, Lilima Minz 14-FG, 24-PC; Jyoti 15-PC, 36-FG; Rajwinder Kaur 16-FG, Sonika 43-FG, Monika 55-FG) beat Thailand 13-0.