Hockey Jharkhand and Odisha Triumph in East Zone Championship 2024

Hockey Jharkhand and Hockey Association of Odisha clinched titles in the Women's and Men's categories respectively at the 2nd Hockey India Sub Junior East Zone Championship 2024 held in Guwahati. Manipur Hockey secured third place in both categories.

In an exhilarating showdown at the Maulana Md. Tayabullah Hockey Stadium in Guwahati, Hockey Jharkhand and Hockey Association of Odisha emerged victorious in the Women's and Men's categories respectively, at the 2nd Hockey India Sub Junior Women and Men East Zone Championship 2024. The Women's category Final saw Hockey Jharkhand edge out Hockey Association of Odisha with a nail-biting 1-1 (0-3 SO) triumph, courtesy goals from Shruti Kumari and a perfect shootout performance by Ankita Lakra, Manjhi Pushpa, and Sandeep Kumari. Manipur Hockey secured the third-place spot by defeating Hockey Bihar 2-0.

In the Men's category, the spectacle continued as Hockey Association of Odisha clinched the title by overcoming Hockey Jharkhand in a thrilling 6-6 (4-3 SO) match. Mithles Kerketta, Aklesh Lakra, Subodh Lakra, and Mandeep Kerketta led the scoreline for Odisha, while Kiro Sabian, Nicolas Topno, and Purti Ashish Tani netted goals for Jharkhand. Manipur Hockey also sealed third place in the Men's division with a commanding 13-1 victory over Hockey Bihar, led by standout performances from Loitongbam Kenish, Manimatum Maibam, and Athokpam Milan.

The 2024 East Zone Championship not only showcased the competitive spirit of these teams but also highlighted emerging talents in Indian hockey. With exhilarating matches and outstanding individual performances, the tournament was a celebration of young hockey talent brimming with potential.

(With inputs from agencies.)