New Delhi, 06 January 2021: Expecting that 2021 will not disappoint, Hockey India president Gyanendro Ningombam await three major international events unfold this year at home. These are Junior World Cup in the year end, both the FIH Congress and Pro League in May.

HI President Gyanendro Ningombam

“We had an amazing time hosting the FIH Junior Men’s World Cup in 2016 where our country came out on top in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh as they beat Belgium in the Final. It was a memorable tournament for many reasons for all of us at Hockey India, and it gave us the experience and confidence to go one step ahead when we hosted the FIH Men’s World Cup in 2018 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Therefore, this year’s FIH Junior Men’s World Cup is again one of the most important tournaments for us as hosts, and we are looking forward to delivering a very smooth and successful showpiece,” expressed Mr. Ningombam.

India will be hosting New Zealand for two matches on 29th and 30th May 2021 when the FIH pro-league return this year. This should pave the way for international hockey’s return to the country.

“We are keeping tabs on all the developments around the globe in terms of resumption of sports activities. I would like to think that we have a great chance of being able to host international matches by the time FIH Hockey Pro League returns to our country in May 2021, and hopefully also be able to welcome back fans to the stadiums if everything goes well globally,” said the President.

“We are certainly in the process of devising a plan which enables us to use the Hockey India Coaching Education Pathway to great effect, and reach out to more young and potential Coaches, officials and even players across the country, and be able to help them develop their knowledge and expertise.”

“We are hoping that 2021 will not disappoint us, and will enable us to host multiple high-profile events in a very safe and secure environment for everyone, especially our players and fans,” he added.