The president of Hockey India Dilip Tirkey isn't happy with Team India's performance in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 despite Harmanpreet Singh-led brigade's unbeaten run in the tournament. According to Tirkey, the team has been inconsistent, showing flashes of brilliance in some matches while failing to meet expectations in others. Their recent 4-1 victory against Malaysia was a crucial win that put their fate back in their own hands for a spot in the final.
Dilip Tirkey on India hockey team's performance in Asia Cup
The win over Malaysia provided a much-needed boost after a disappointing 2-2 draw with South Korea. Now, Team India faces a tough challenge against China. Their previous encounter ended in a narrow 4-3 victory for India, so they're expecting a difficult match. Despite the team's mixed results and inconsistency, Tirkey remains optimistic that India will secure their place in the final.
"The Indian team has performed well in some league matches. They have not been able to perform to the standards of the Indian team. In the play-off, we saw that Korea had a 2-2 draw. We hope India plays the finals tomorrow," he told ANI.
As the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup intensifies, India currently holds the top spot in the table. China and Malaysia are tied on points, sitting in second and third place, respectively. India's path to the final is straightforward: a win or a draw against China will secure their spot.
However, a loss would complicate matters. While a defeat wouldn't immediately eliminate India, their qualification would then hinge on the result of the match between Malaysia and South Korea. If Malaysia loses, India will advance to the final. But if Malaysia wins, India's tournament journey will come to an end.
Off the field, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey has been impressed by the overwhelming support for the team. He highlighted the large crowds that have filled the stands to cheer on the hosts, praising the Bihar government for their significant support throughout the tournament.
"The arrangements in Rajgiri are very good. The most interesting thing is that the hockey fans are coming to watch the match. They are coming to the stadium, and many people are going back because the stadium is getting crowded. But the response has been very positive. The Bihar government is giving a lot of support," Tirkey concluded.