Rajgir To Host 8th Women’s Asian Champions Trophy In November 2024

New Delhi: Hockey India is set to host one of the biggest events in Asian hockey, the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024, at the newly-developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar. The prestigious continental tournament, scheduled to take place from November 11 to 20, will feature top teams including Defending Champions India, reigning Olympic Silver-medalists China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand.

This marks the first time Bihar will host an international hockey event, and it follows the successful edition held in Ranchi last year, where India emerged as champions. The 8th edition of the tournament will be jointly organized by Hockey India and the Bihar Government.

Rajgir, an ancient city known for its spiritual heritage and hot springs, will now become a part of the international hockey landscape. The newly-built Rajgir Hockey Stadium is set to be the centerpiece of the tournament, and Shri Nitish Kumar, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Bihar, expressed his excitement about bringing this event to the state.

“I am very happy and delighted to extend the support of the Bihar Government to host the 8th Women’s Asian Champions Trophy. We extend a warm welcome to all the international teams and will ensure no stone is left unturned in making this event a grand success,” the Chief Minister stated.

Dato Fumio Ogura, President of the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF), also praised India for continuing its role as host, following last year’s successful edition in Ranchi. “I extend my profound gratitude to Hockey India for taking up the responsibility to host this marquee event. I am confident that the tournament in Rajgir will be a huge success,” Ogura remarked.

Dr. Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, highlighted the significance of hosting the event in Bihar, marking a historic first for the state in international hockey. “This is a historic moment for hockey as this is the first time an international tournament is being held in Bihar. We are grateful to AHF and the Bihar Government for their support,” he said.

Shri Bhola Nath Singh, Secretary General of Hockey India, expressed excitement about the tournament’s potential impact, particularly in promoting women’s hockey in the region. “Taking an event of this stature to Bihar will inspire children to take up the sport. We look forward to welcoming all international teams and hockey lovers to Bihar,” Singh added.

The Women’s Asian Champions Trophy is a key event on the Asian hockey calendar, offering a platform for Asia’s best teams to compete. With India defending their title on home soil, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling hockey action. The event is expected to further promote the sport in Bihar, inspiring the next generation of players and showcasing India’s growing prominence in the global hockey community.

The tournament will be held at the newly-constructed Rajgir Hockey Stadium from November 11 to 20, 2024.