The Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham was a milestone for Indian women’s hockey. After 16 years, India secured the bronze medal in the women’s hockey tournament. This was an emotional and exciting moment for the team and the entire nation. The tournament took place from July 29 to August 7, 2022, at the University of Birmingham Hockey and Squash Centre. The competition had six teams divided into two pools. India was in Pool A, along with England, Wales, and Ghana, while Pool B had Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
India’s Pool Stage Performances
India vs Ghana – July 29, 2022
India kicked off their campaign with a dominant 5-0 win against Ghana. Gurjit Kaur scored the opening goal through a penalty corner, and Neha, Sangita Kumari, and Salima Tete also found the net. The team played well as a unit, and Savita Punia was solid in goal.
India vs Wales – July 31, 2022
In their second match, India defeated Wales 3-1. Vandana Katariya was the star, scoring two goals, and Gurjit Kaur added another. Even though Xenna Hughes pulled one back for Wales, India’s defense held strong.
India vs England – August 2, 2022
Next up was England, and though India fought hard, they lost 3-1. Vandana Katariya scored India’s only goal, but England’s Giselle Ansley, Tess Howard, and Hannah Martin secured the win for the hosts.
India vs Canada – August 4, 2022
India bounced back with a 3-2 victory over Canada. Goals from Salima Tete, Navneet Kaur, and Lalremsiami helped India finish strong in the group stages.
India’s Semi-Final Against Australia
India vs Australia – August 6, 2022
India faced Australia in the semi-finals in a thrilling match that ended 1-1 after regular time. Rebecca Greiner put Australia ahead, and Vandana Katariya equalized for India. The match went into a penalty shootout, where India unfortunately missed all their attempts. Despite Savita Punia’s brilliant saves, Australia won the shootout and advanced to the final.
The Bronze Medal Match
India vs New Zealand – August 7, 2022
After the heartbreak in the semi-finals, India played New Zealand for the bronze medal. The match was tense and ended 1-1 after regulation time, with Salima Tete scoring for India. In the penalty shootout, India held their nerve, winning 2-1. Navneet Kaur and Sonika Tandi scored, and Savita Punia made crucial saves to seal India’s bronze medal victory.
Final Standings
- 1st – England
- 2nd – Australia
- 3rd – India
- 4th – New Zealand
- 5th – Canada
India’s Performance and Final Position
India’s performance in the 2022 Commonwealth Games was a true reflection of their growth as a team. The victory in the bronze medal match was a highlight, showcasing their resilience and determination. Although they lost in the semi-finals, India bounced back strongly to win the shootout and claim the third position. The team’s effort, led by players like Vandana Katariya, Gurjit Kaur, and Savita Punia, was commendable.
Looking Ahead
The bronze medal is just the beginning for Indian women’s hockey. The team has shown significant progress, and with a blend of young talent and experienced players, the future looks bright. Indian fans can expect more thrilling performances as the team continues to develop and compete on the global stage.
