Champions Trophy hockey: PM Narendra Modi consoles Indian team after heartbreaking loss

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday consoled the Indian men's hockey team after their heartbreaking loss to Australia in the Champions Trophy final.

Taking to social micro-blogging site Twitter, Mr. Modi lauded the men in blue for their spirited performance and effort. He also added that the country was proud of the entire team.

Congrats to our Hockey Team for a spirited performance in Champions Trophy finals. Their effort has been brilliant. We're proud of the team.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 18, 2016

India muffed three tries in the title-deciding shootout to settle for a silver medal in the 36th Champions Trophy as they lost the final 1-3 against Australia in London.

Only Harmanpreet Singh was able to score in the shootout, while SK Uthappa, SV Sunil and Surender Kumar all shot wide off the target. Just four attempts were required from the two teams as Australia had gained a winning 3-1 lead.

The Indian boys defended resolutely throughout the final against their in-form opponents.

Many believe, this was one of the best defensive performances from the Indian team in a long time.

Despite defeat, the team will be happy with their performance in the run-up to the Rio Games.

We lost the match ..But .. We won millions of heart ..Be proud boys #silver #HCT2016 #BestOfTheBest @TheHockeyIndia pic.twitter.com/EF2hccI28t

— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) June 18, 2016

(With PTI inputs)