Vandana Katariya Confident Ahead of Women's Asian Champions Trophy

Indian forward Vandana Katariya is optimistic about her team's prospects in the upcoming Women's Asian Champions Trophy set to take place in Bihar. She praises the improvements made by young players and anticipates a strong defense of their title. The revamped Hockey India League is also expected to shine a light on emerging talent.

In a fervent preparation for the Women's Asian Champions Trophy slated for November in Bihar, Indian hockey forward Vandana Katariya has expressed optimism about the team's prospects. She highlighted the significant improvements seen among the younger players, instilling confidence in their ability to defend the title successfully.

The tournament, hosted in Rajgir, Bihar, from November 11 to 20, will see India as the most successful team in the championship's history, vying against formidable teams like China, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, and Thailand. Vandana's comments come in the wake of her remarks at the recent Hockey India Senior Women Inter-Departmental National Championship 2024.

Furthermore, Vandana showed enthusiasm for the return of the Hockey India League (HIL), predicting it will serve as a vital platform for young players, potentially paving the way to Olympic success. The league, starting December 28, will mark the debut of a standalone women's league, alongside the men's, symbolizing a groundbreaking moment for Indian hockey.

The Railway Sports Promotion Board, Vandana's team, avenged their previous defeat by overcoming Indian Oil Ltd with a 3-1 victory. The gripping match saw goals from Vandana Katariya, Navneet Kaur, and Salima Tete, securing a triumphant win and setting a victorious precedent leading up to the Asian Champions Trophy.

(With inputs from agencies.)