The Men's Hockey Asia Cup 2022 is just around the corner. India will take on Pakistan in the tournament opener on May 23 in Indonesia. Before the Birendra Lakra-led defending champions take on the arch-rivals in the Pool A clash, here's a look at the rich history of the tournament.
First-ever edition
The inaugural edition of Men's Hockey Asia Cup was played in 1982 in Karachi. Seven teams participated in the event. Hosts Pakistan beat India to win the trophy.
Pakistan continued to dominate in the following two seasons as well. In 1985 and 1989, Pakistan beat India in the final again to complete the hat-trick of Asia Cup wins.
South Korea’s reign
In 1994, Pakistan were dethroned from the top. They could not qualify for the final. However, India's fate in the final did not change as South Korea won the trophy. In 1999 edition, South Korea were able to successfully defend their title after beating Pakistan.
India’s dominance
India had their shot at redemption in the 2003 edition. Dhanraj Pillay-led India beat Pakistan by 4-2 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to win the trophy for the first time. In 2007, hosts India defend their title with a big 7-2 win over South Korea in the final.
South Korea win most titles
The next two editions were hosted by Malaysia. South Korea beat Pakistan and India respectively to win two consecutive titles. South Korea also became the team with most Asia Cup titles in their name (4).
Malaysia make into first final
In the previous edition hosted by Bangladesh, India beat Malaysia by 2-1 to win the title for the third time. This was the first time Malaysia managed to reach the final.
Most goals in season
The most number of goals scored by a team in a season are 57. India hold the record in their title-winning run in 2007 edition.
Former Pakistan player Hassan Sardar has most number of goals (16). He achieved the record tally in the inaugural edition of Asia Cup in 1982. He also has 26 goals across all editions of the mega event, the most by any player. His tally of 26 goals includes three hat-tricks.
