Accolades come from all sides after English harvest

Sukhbir Singh Grewal, World Cupper: India always plays well when it plays its natural game, that is attacking hockey. But when other teams pack their defense, India always finds it difficult. Yesterday, India started well, but then England came back nicely. India could have won it in the extra time easily, but better late than never. They played their natural game. Australia will be even tougher opponents, and both teams will play with packed defense. We must aim at the gold but even if we loose to world no 1, it’s not that bad. A podium finish is always good.

Sita Mehta, CWG 2002 gold medalist: First of all, many many congratulations to the team for putting up a great show. They really made us proud. I want them to work even harder in the finals and come back flying colors.

Chetan Sharma, ex-fast bowler: I am really glad to see India into the finals. I wish them all the best, and hope they win the gold medal.

Maninder Singh, former spinner: It’s great news for every Indian. I hope this is the right step towards revival of the Indian Hockey. I wish them all the luck for the finals. Chak de India!

Mohd Shahid, Moscow Olympic gold medalist: This match reminded me of good old days of the Indian Hockey. Full marks to the Indian team that played attacking hockey and beat a good team like England. Now their aim should be to win the gold medal. They should not think that the Aussies are unbeatable. They must give their 100% and make us proud.

Aslam Sher Khan, World Cup Gold medalist: It was a great win. England is now one of the best teams in the world and beating them is really good. And the best thing is that India has made to the finals of a big event after a long time. I wish the team all the best for the big match and wish that this is the begining of the new golden era of the Indian hockey

Nikhil Chopra, ex off-spinner: Indian team has done us proud by reaching the finals. Let’s hope they keep their winning momentum intact and beat the Aussies in the finals.

Ashok Malhotra, ex-batsman: Oh, it was a great match! Indian team played superb attacking hockey. Of course there are areas of improvement, but reaching finals of the CWG is a great achievement. I am keeping my fingers crossed for the gold medal.