India clinch record sixth ACT crown (Image: Hockey India/X)
The landmark occasion was particularly special for Hardik, who had served as a ball boy at the same venue during the 2013 Hockey India League. More than a decade later, he returned as one of the world’s finest midfielders and once again showcased why he is regarded among the best in the game.
Asked what he told his players during the half-time break, the South African added: “Full effort, full press and keep doing what we’re doing, but just do it better.” It was far from a dream start for the hosts though. Japan stunned the packed crowd when Kazumasa Matsumoto scored a brilliant field goal in the third minute. India, however, kept probing despite finding the Japanese defence difficult to breach during the opening two quarters. However, just as they had done in the group-stage meeting, India eventually cracked Japan’s defence, scoring four goals across the third and fourth quarters to secure their third consecutive title in front of a raucous home crowd. The ball looped up into the air inside the circle, but Vibek reacted brilliantly, volleying it into the net from the right and giving the Japanese goalkeeper no chance. But even as Hardik celebrated his 200th international in style, the evening also marked the end of an era for Nilakanta Sharma. The Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist played the final match of his career and could hardly have scripted a better farewell, lifting the trophy in front of family members who were present to witness the occasion. “They played really well. We weren’t sharp. We were a little bit behind them. But all credit to them, they had a really good first half.
After missing several opportunities earlier in the tournament, Dilpreet showed remarkable awareness, scoring with his back to goal after being found by Hardik’s incisive pass. What’s pleasing is that we’ve had strong second-half performances against China, Japan, Korea and today again,” Fulton said.