Veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh has dedicated the Indian men's hockey team's title triumph in the Asia Cup to the victims of the devastating floods in his home state of Punjab, saying “this win is a tribute to their courage”.
The 33-year-old, who was born into a farming family in Mithapur village on the outskirts of Jalandhar, played a crucial role in India's win in the continental tournament, which secured the team a direct entry into next year's FIH World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
"I would like to dedicate this victory to the people of Punjab who are enduring the devastating floods with unimaginable strength and resilience," Olympic medallist Manpreet said after Sunday’s win.
"This triumph is for every victim fighting to rebuild their life, and to the selfless volunteers who are working day and night to rescue, support and rehabilitate those in need. Your spirit is our true inspiration, and this win is a tribute to the courage of Punjab," said the former captain.
With four titles, India have become the second-most successful team in the Asia Cup behind five-time champions Korea. India had last won the title in 2017 in Dhaka following successes in the 2003 (Kuala Lumpur) and 2007 (Chennai) editions of the continental tournament.
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