IHF Prez congratulates Indian hockey team for Asia Cup show

New Delhi: Indian Hockey Federation President K D Singh on Monday congratulated the national team for finishing runners-up in the Asia Cup after a narrow loss to South Korea in the final in Ipoh, Malaysia.

"I`m delighted at the Indian team`s performance in the Asia Cup. Never mind the loss in the final, the team played really well throughout the tournament," Singh said. "Hockey has always brought laurels for the country in the past, it is time we restore its glory and make India proud," he added. In the final yesterday, India made a spirited fightback in the second half but failed to earn a direct berth in next year`s hockey World Cup as they lost the summit clash 3-4. The Indians, who are virtually assured of a place in the game`s showpiece event to be held at The Hague, Netherlands, needed to win the eight-nation tournament to secure a direct entry in the World Cup. Korea`s fourth title win means Malaysia are certain to return to the World Cup after a gap of 12 years. The Indians will now have to wait till the conclusion of the Oceania Cup in November, which either Australia and New Zealand is expected to win, for the official confirmation of their participation from the FIH. Both Australia and New Zealand have already made it to the World Cup through FIH World League. PTI