The Indian Women’s Hockey Team at Tokyo 2020 created history! Just missing out on a podium finish by a margin of 1 goal, would have definitely hurt a lot! But one can never ignore the fact that the girls crossed all the expectations by leaps and bounds. From merely qualifying in the previous Olympics to make it to the 4th position in Tokyo, the journey has been one to cherish! So, who are the protagonists of this victory, here’s a look: –
Gurjit Kaur: –
India’s leading goal scorer from the Tokyo campaign, Gurjit Kaur is India’s top drag-flicker. Hailing from the Miadi Kalan pind from Punjab, Gurjit brings in the Punjabi spirit!! Like “Flicker Singh”, we now have a “Flicker Kaur”!! Gurjit absolutely launches the ball off her stick from the penalty spot. Her defensive game also is second to none. One of the experienced veterans in the team, Gurjit proved to be India’s trump card!
Vandana Katariya: –
Coming in from Roshnabad, UP, Katariya is one of the most skillful players that the Indian Women’s team has ever produced. Katariya had previously captained the team in 2016, in a series against Australia. Vandana belonging to a so-called “lower caste” never let casteism ruin her sport. And as a critic, I would say that “Casteism doesn’t have any place in sports”. After dealing with all of the slurs and criticism, Vandana proved her mettle in Tokyo 2020.
Rani Rampal: –
Bringing in the Haryanvi swag, the Indian team’s skipper Rani is an absolute force in the midfield! From classy ball work to pin-point passes, Rani does it all. It is said that after Rani became captain the fitness level of the Indian team improved by leaps and bounds. “A captain is only as good as his team is”! But this was not the case with Rani, as whenever she was seen on the pitch in the Tokyo campaign, the girls had a boost of energy and confidence.
Sushila Chanu: –
The northeastern flavor for the team is brought by Sushila Chanu. Coming in from Imphal, Sushila has 150 caps to her name. Sushila comes from a humble background, her father was a driver, while her mom was a homemaker. Sushila holds the team’s back while playing in the half-back position. She too has a lot of experience and has been a former captain of the team. She went in as the vice-captain of the team in the Tokyo Campaign.
Lalremsiami Hmar: –
Gliding in the Indian wing positions is Lalremsiami Hmar from Aizwal, Mizoram. Like every other Indian girl on the team sheet, she too comes from a humble background. Her parents were farmers but always nurtured Lalremsiami’s game! With the support of her parents and with the burden of a billion dreams Lalrem went to Tokyo. Her ball control and skills were a treat to watch. The way Lalrem, went across the Brits and Argentines was supreme.
Savita Punia: –
“The Wall” as called by all of India, Savita Punia is already an inspiration! Coming from Sirsa, Haryana, Savita is a 2018, Arjun Awardee. And she deserves all of the praise. Savita came to shine when it was required the most! Save after save after save! Savita was unbeaten. With her world-class performance in the Olympics, Savita has now become a guiding light for several young girls.