Punjab capable of hosting 2030 hockey world cup: Bhagwant Mann

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has said that Punjab is fully capable of hosting the 2030 Hockey World Cup matches on its grounds. Following the successful conclusion of the Asian Champions Trophy in Mohali, he said that this major tournament has proved that the state can successfully manage global sports events.

The Chief Minister and Governor Gulab Chand Kataria congratulated the people of the state on the success of this international sports festival. Bhagwant Mann said that the soil of Punjab has given the country 77 such hockey players who have played in the Olympics and 48 of them have won Olympic medals. He stated that Punjabi players have also captained the national team 10 times in the Olympics.

Mentioning sports facilities, the Chief Minister stated that six new astroturf grounds have been prepared within the state while the construction of two others is underway. To promote sports at the rural and grassroots levels, 18 small astroturf fields have been installed and under the new policy, 1,744 crore rupees have been reserved for the development of sports.

Earlier, in the title clash, the Indian team defeated Japan 4-1 to claim the championship for the sixth time. Initially, Japan took a one-goal lead, but later the Indian players made a strong comeback, scoring four goals to win the match.

On the final day of the tournament, Indian midfielder Hardik Singh completed his 200th international match, on which occasion the Chief Minister and the Governor honored him by presenting a special jersey. Meanwhile, Indian hockey player Nilakanta Sharma announced his decision to bid farewell to international hockey.

Key developments

• Chief Minister terms Punjab capable of hosting 2030 Hockey World Cup
• Indian team retains trophy by defeating Japan 4-1 in the final
• Punjab's special budget for sports infrastructure is 1,744 crore rupees
• Hardik Singh plays 200th match, Nilakanta Sharma bids adieu to international game