Ranchi
The defending champions, Japan women’s hockey team, landed in Ranchi on Sunday morning, receiving a warm welcome at the Birsa Munda Airport. Their arrival signals the beginning of the much-anticipated Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi from October 27 to November 5. Japan is gearing up to face formidable opponents in this tournament, including Malaysia, China, Korea, Thailand, and hosts India. The stage is set for a thrilling showcase of sporting prowess, where these Asian powerhouses will demonstrate their skills, determination, and unwavering passion for the game. Japan’s journey in the tournament will kick off with a match against Malaysia on October 27. The Japanese team has a successful history in the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, having secured the title in both the 2013 and 2021 editions of this prestigious competition. They also finished as runners-up in 2010 and claimed the third position in 2011 and 2016. Captain Yuri of the Japanese team expressed their readiness for the tournament, stating, We are thoroughly prepared for this competition and deeply moved by the warm welcome we have received in Ranchi, which serves as a tremendous source of motivation. Our team dynamics have evolved, and we anticipate that all these improvements will be visible during this competition. Our objective is to emerge as the top team in this tournament and defend the elusive title.
