9 Sep 2025
By Sarhind Times Sports Desk
Introduction
Indian sports fans have plenty to celebrate this week as the nation achieved two major international victories that highlight its growing dominance across disciplines.
- In hockey, India clinched its fourth Men’s Hockey Asia Cup title, defeating South Korea in a gripping final and qualifying for the 2026 FIH World Cup.
- In sepak takraw, a lesser-known but fast-growing sport in India, the men’s team captured its first-ever gold medal at the ISTAF World Cup, alongside multiple medals in other categories.
Together, these wins reflect India’s expanding sporting landscape, where both traditional powerhouses and emerging disciplines are delivering global success.
Hockey Glory: India Wins Fourth Asia Cup Title
The Road to the Final
India’s journey in the Asia Cup 2025 was a mix of grit, discipline, and tactical brilliance:
- Group Stage: India topped their pool with convincing wins over Malaysia and Japan.
- Semifinal: A hard-fought victory against Pakistan reignited the subcontinental rivalry and boosted morale.
- Final vs South Korea: Played under immense pressure, India triumphed with a 3–2 scoreline.
Star Performers
- Harmanpreet Singh (Captain): Led from the front with crucial drag flicks.
- PR Sreejesh (Goalkeeper): Pulled off spectacular saves in crunch moments.
- Vivek Prasad & Mandeep Singh: Provided attacking spark and finishing touches.
Significance of the Win
- Fourth Asia Cup Title – Cementing India’s status as a continental hockey giant.
- FIH World Cup Qualification (2026) – Ensures India a spot in the global showpiece.
- Confidence Booster – Sets the tone for the upcoming Pro League and Olympic preparations.
Sepak Takraw Breakthrough: First-Ever Men’s Team Gold
While hockey is India’s established sport, the historic achievement in sepak takraw has surprised many.
What is Sepak Takraw?
- A Southeast Asian sport often described as “kick volleyball.”
- Players use feet, head, knees, and chest to strike a rattan ball over a net.
- Requires agility, acrobatics, and teamwork.
India’s Performance at ISTAF World Cup
- Men’s Team Event: India stunned traditional powerhouses like Thailand and Malaysia before beating Indonesia in the final.
- Medal Haul: In addition to gold, India won bronze in doubles and mixed events.
Key Players
- Anup Singh & Manjeet Yadav: Known for their high-flying kicks.
- Coach Hemraj: Credited with building the team’s self-belief.
Why This Matters
- Historic First: India had never won a men’s team gold in sepak takraw at this level.
- Recognition for Non-Cricket Sports: Puts spotlight on disciplines that rarely make headlines.
- Youth Inspiration: Likely to inspire more participation in northeast states, where sepak takraw is popular.
Broader Impact of These Wins
Reviving Hockey’s Legacy
India was once the undisputed king of hockey, winning eight Olympic golds. The Asia Cup victory adds to the revival efforts, alongside the bronze at the Tokyo Olympics and consistent Pro League performances.
Promoting Indigenous & Regional Sports
Sepak takraw’s rise reflects the sports diversity of India, particularly from the northeastern region where the game is popular. Government recognition and funding can turn this breakthrough into a sustainable success story.
Reactions from Across India
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Congratulated both teams on social media, calling the victories “a proud day for Indian sports.”
- Sports Minister: Promised enhanced funding and training infrastructure for emerging sports.
- Fans: Social media buzzed with hashtags like #AsiaCupChampions and #SepakTakrawGold trending nationwide.
Challenges Ahead
- For Hockey:
- Maintain consistency against European powerhouses like Belgium, Netherlands, and Germany.
- Strengthen fitness and bench depth.
- For Sepak Takraw:
- Expand grassroots programs across India.
- Provide world-class infrastructure and exposure tours.
- Attract sponsorships and media attention.
Expert Opinions
- Hockey Analyst:
“India’s defensive structure has improved drastically. The Asia Cup win is not just about talent, but about tactical maturity.” - Sepak Takraw Federation Official:
“This gold medal is a watershed moment. We expect participation to rise in schools and colleges across the country.”
Looking Ahead
- Hockey: Focus now shifts to the FIH Pro League 2026 and long-term Olympic preparations.
- Sepak Takraw: India’s next goal will be to dominate the Asian Games and push for greater representation at the Olympics, where the sport is campaigning for inclusion.
Conclusion
India’s triumphs in hockey and sepak takraw represent two sides of the nation’s sporting story—reviving its heritage sport and making history in an emerging discipline.
Together, they underscore the message that India is no longer just a cricket-loving country—it is becoming a multi-sport nation with the ability to shine across global arenas.
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