The year 2023 proved to be a stern test of character for Indian hockey. It was a period marked by significant transition, agonizing near-misses, and the relentless pursuit of a coveted spot at the Paris Olympics. While the ultimate goal of securing an automatic Olympic berth slipped away at the Asian Games, the narrative of the year is one of a team battling through adversity under new leadership.
A New Era Begins with Craig Fulton
The most pivotal moment of the year arrived in May with the appointment of Craig Fulton as the new chief coach of the Indian men's hockey team. The South African strategist took over the reins from the legendary Graham Reid, who stepped down following India's disappointing ninth-place finish at the 2023 World Cup held on home soil in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela. Fulton, known for his defensive acumen, faced the immediate challenge of rebuilding team morale and instilling a fresh tactical identity.
His tenure began with a promising note at the 100th Anniversary Spanish Hockey Federation International Tournament in July, where India clinched the title. This early success offered a glimpse of the team's potential under his guidance. The core focus, however, was squarely on the Asian Games in Hangzhou, where a gold medal would guarantee a direct ticket to the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The Agony of Hangzhou and Olympic Qualification
The Asian Games campaign was a rollercoaster. India displayed dominance in the pool stages but faced a formidable hurdle in the final against defending champions Japan. In a tense and dramatic match, the teams were locked at 4-4 after regulation time, forcing a penalty shootout. India lost the shootout 4-5, settling for a silver medal and missing the automatic Olympic qualification.
This defeat was a significant setback, but the team's Olympic dream was not extinguished. The silver medal earned them a place in the FIH Olympic Qualifiers. In a do-or-die tournament held in Ranchi in January 2024, the Indian men's team, under immense pressure, delivered a flawless performance. They won all their matches, including a decisive 4-0 victory over New Zealand, to officially book their berth for the Paris Olympics.
Women's Team Faces Similar Hurdles
The journey of the Indian women's hockey team mirrored the challenges faced by their male counterparts. They, too, fell short at the Asian Games, losing 0-4 to China in the semifinals. However, they showcased remarkable resilience to bounce back and defeat Japan 2-1 in the bronze medal match. Like the men, this podium finish secured their chance at the Olympic Qualifiers.
In Ranchi, the women's team, led by the experienced Savita Punia, displayed grit and determination. They secured crucial victories, most notably against higher-ranked opponents, to finish third in the qualifier and successfully secure their ticket to Paris 2024. This achievement underscored the growing depth and fighting spirit within the women's squad.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Paris
As the dust settles on a tumultuous 2023, the focus for both national teams is now unequivocally on the Paris Olympics. For chief coach Craig Fulton, the coming months will be about fine-tuning the squad, addressing inconsistencies exposed during the year, and building a unit capable of challenging for a podium finish. The Pro League matches and other international fixtures will serve as vital preparation grounds.
The year was undeniably difficult, testing the resolve of players, coaches, and the administration led by Hockey India. Yet, it also revealed the team's capacity to overcome disappointment. The successful navigation through the Olympic Qualifiers has provided a fresh start and a clear objective. The story of Indian hockey in 2023 is not just one of setbacks but of a resilient fightback, setting the stage for a crucial Olympic campaign where the lessons learned this year will be put to the ultimate test.
