Rajgir is poised to welcome Asia’s hockey powerhouses as they compete for continental glory from November 11 to 20, marking a significant milestone in the state’s sporting legacy.
The tournament will take place at the newly constructed Rajgir Hockey Stadium, where India will defend their title against teams from China, Malaysia, Japan, Thailand, and Korea.
The Indian women’s hockey team will face Malaysia in its opening match in the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament in Rajgir, Bihar on November 11.
India won the 2016 edition before reclaiming the title last year. After Malaysia, India will face Korea on November 12, followed by matches against Thailand (November 14), China (November 16) and Japan (November 17).
The Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the event, stating that the Bihar government is extremely pleased to welcome the eighth Hockey Women’s Asian Champions Trophy to Rajgir. He assured that every effort will be made to ensure the tournament’s success.
Previously, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unveiled the logo and mascot of the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024, setting the stage for the first international hockey tournament in the state which will be played at the historic city of Rajgir. The official logo and the endearing mascot ‘Gudiya’ were unveiled in the presence of the torchbearers of the Indian women’s hockey team – captain Salima Tete and vice-captain Navneet Kaur.
Hockey India President, Dr. Dilip Tirkey, emphasised the importance of the logo and mascot. “The unveiling of the logo and ‘Gudiya’ as the mascot is a proud moment for us all. It symbolizes Bihar’s rich cultural and natural heritage and commitment to sports. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Government of Bihar for their invaluable support in hosting the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy,” said Tirkey.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh expressed his enthusiasm as well. “It is a proud moment for Indian hockey to see the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy being hosted in the culturally rich state of Bihar. The logo and mascot, Gudiya, beautifully symbolize the strength, resilience, and growth of our athletes and the importance of this competition” he said.
