Asia Cup win reminds me of our 2003 triumph, says Dhanraj Pillay
India hockey legend Dhanraj Pillay was ecstatic with India’s Asia Cup final win and has stated that it reminded him of the 2003 triumph when India won it first under his captaincy. He also expressed his delight for assistant coach Jugraj Singh, who couldn’t participate in 2003 after an accident.
India lifted the Asia Cup 2017 title in Dhaka on Sunday as they held off an adamant Malaysia side to finish the game 2-1. Goals from Ramandeep Singh and Lalit
Former India hockey captain Dhanraj Pillay seemed overjoyed by the victory and stated that it reminded him of India’s first ever Asia Cup win back in 2003 when he was the captain of the side. India went into the Cup as the favourites and remained unbeaten in the entire tournament.
Speaking to News18, Pillay said, “I would like to congratulate the team for their emphatic performance. No doubt we were favourites to win, but I was impressed by the kind of hockey we played. I have no doubt we are on the right track.”
He pointed out India’s victory against Pakistan in the Super 4 that paved the way for the final. After beating the archrivals once in the group stage, India needed just a draw against Pakistan to reach the final. However, they turned on the heat in some fashion an ended the game 4-0 by some late goals.
Pillay said, "Pakistan might not be the same team, but India-Pakistan matches are always tough. Both countries are so passionate about their hockey and players have to give their 100 percent each and every time. It's a high-pressure game."
The win will also come as a huge achievement for coach Sjoerd Marijne and his assistant Jugraj Singh.
“Jugraj was one of the finest talents in Indian hockey. Back in 2003, his
“But now he has a medal of his own, his impact on the team was for everyone to see," Pillay said, with a tinge of emotion in his voice,” he added.
