International hockey returns to New Delhi after a decade, with the announcement of two-match series against Paris silver medallist Germany. The Indo-German duel will be held in the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, which hosted two top notch events, Commonwealth Games hockey and hockey World Cup, in 2010. However, the venue ran out of favour after Odisha Government stepped in a big way midway through 2014 and also due to hike in the stadium tariff. 2015 HWL R2 for women was the last international the sprawling stadium hosted.
India-Germany nowadays are bot brands in the international hockey. India beat them 5-4 in Tokyo to get their only Olympic bronze in 41 years, while the European giant extracted their revenge denying India their final entry with a narrow semifinal (3-2) win in Paris.
Last time India and Germany played a Series in India was in 2001.
Hockey India President Dr Dilip Tirkey expressed his enthusiasm and stated, “This bilateral series against Germany will be a remarkable showcase of world-class hockey. Both India and Germany have a rich history in the sport, and this series will give fans an opportunity to witness an intense competition between two of the most formidable teams in the world. We are honoured to host this event, which will not only promote the spirit of hockey but also strengthen the bond between the two nations.”
Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh added, “The India-Germany hockey rivalry has always been a thrilling contest. Our players are eager to compete against such a good side, and I believe this series will offer both teams a chance to fine-tune their skills and strategies ahead of future international tournaments. We are proud to be part of this Indo-German collaboration, which brings together not just business and diplomacy but also the love of sport.”
President of the German Hockey Federation Henning Fastrich shared his excitement, “India has always been a special place for hockey, and our team is excited to play in front of passionate Indian hockey fans. This series will be a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the sporting ties between Germany and India while offering both teams a competitive platform to prepare for upcoming global events. We look forward to the challenge and the experience of playing at the historic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.”