The North News
Japan’s 18-member men’s hockey team received a traditional Punjabi welcome at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Mohali on Friday ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Jalandhar and Mohali from October 27 to November 5.
The visiting players were welcomed with bhangra performances and garlands, while officials of the Sports Department extended their hospitality. The Japanese players thanked their hosts and expressed excitement about competing in Punjab.
The Japanese squad comprises Yamada Shota, Tanaka Seren, Watanbe Jun, Matsumoto Kazumasa, Nagai Yuma, Yamashita Manabu, Fujishima Raiki (captain), Nagayoshi Ken, Saito Hiro, Kashiwagi Ren, Tanaka Tsubasa, Ooka Ryoma, Kawamura Yusuke, Kuroda Kisho (goalkeeper), Yamanaka Motoya, Ochiai Haruki, Kitagawa Takumi (goalkeeper) and Fukuda Kentaro.
Arrangements have been made for the team’s accommodation, practice sessions and travel during the tournament. The Punjab Government has assured participating teams of adequate facilities, security and hospitality.
The tournament is being hosted in Punjab for the first time. The source statement credited Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s efforts with helping the state secure the hosting opportunity.
Besides hosts India and Japan, South Korea, China, Malaysia and Bangladesh will compete in the six-nation championship.
The tournament will begin on October 27 at the Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar, while the final will be played on November 5 at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior Hockey Stadium in Mohali.
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