Patna: Bihar is set to host its inaugural international hockey tournament, the 8th Women's Asian Champions Trophy, in Rajgir, India, from November 11 to 20.
The tournament, jointly organised by Hockey India and the Bihar government, will be held at the newly-developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
Following the success of last year’s tournament in Ranchi, where the Indian women’s team secured the title, the upcoming edition will feature top teams, including defending champions India, Olympic Silver medalists China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his pride in hosting this landmark event, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome the 8th Women's Asian Champions Trophy to Bihar. This is a significant milestone for our state, and we are committed to ensuring a successful and memorable tournament."
Dato Fumio Ogura, President of the Asian Hockey Federation, added, "I am pleased to announce India as the host nation for this prestigious event. With the successful hosting of the previous edition in Ranchi, I am confident that Rajgir will deliver an equally impressive tournament."
Dr Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of this event for the state, "This is a historic moment for Bihar as it hosts its first international hockey tournament. We are grateful to the Asian Hockey Federation and the Bihar Government for their support in making this possible."
Bhola Nath Singh, Secretary General of Hockey India, emphasised the significance of bringing such an event to Bihar, stating, "Hosting back-to-back editions of the Asian Champions Trophy in India is a proud moment for Indian Women’s Hockey. We hope to inspire future generations by bringing this prestigious event to Bihar and look forward to welcoming teams and fans from around the world."
