Ludhiana, June 26
The Namdhari Hockey XI is synonymous with hockey playing teams not only in India but also around the world. Due to the continued training and talent search, members of the Namdhari hockey team have been sought after at the national level since 2002. The present Namdhari hockey team has been following in the footsteps of their seniors who had carved out a niche for themselves in the game during 1980-2000.
The Namdhari Hockey XI, which participated in the California Cup held in Los Angeles recently, gave a stupendous performance, finishing third. In this tournament, well established clubs drawn from different countries with a number of international stars and Olympians in their ranks took part.
According to Mr Udhay Singh, Director, Namdhari Seeds, which sponsored the teams’ tour, the California Cup is a well-organised affair having various categories, ranging from 6 to 60 years of age groups. More than 150 teams battled it out for top honours during this event. The Namdhari team, during the super league, started the proceedings with a comfortable 5-1 win over Mystery Hockey Club of Los Angeles. The next match against Unknown Heroes XI turned out to be a one-sided affair as the team from India romped home victorious hands down 8-1.
The third match was played against Boekaniers of Holland which had a number of Olympians from the famous Dutch national team. Although Namdhari XI dominated the proceedings most of the time but failed to capitalise the opportunities which came their way and finally lost it 2-3. In the last league match, Namdhari lads recorded an easy win over Commonwealth XI.
In the semi final, Namdhari XI faced Argentina Club which had in its ranks lethal forward — Jorge Lombi. Both the teams displayed good stick work and the spectators were kept on the edge of their seats. The Argentina club won 4-2 and eventually wrapped up the title also. In the match to decide the third place, Namdhari XI thrashed Boekaniers Club of Holland 7-1 to finish third and thus avenged their defeat in the league phase. Didar Singh of Namdhari XI was adjudged the best scorer of the tournament.
Two-time Olympian — Oene Van Bruschettes of Boekaniers Club — complimented the Namdhari XI when he said: “I was amazed to see such a youthful side playing such mature hockey”. The spectators also praised the Namdhari players’ behaviour on and off the field. They were thrilled to see the traditional Indian style hockey played by the young talented team”, Mr Udhay Singh said.
