The Delhi Waveriders maintained their victory run in the Hockey India League, winning against Punjab Warriors 30 at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here on Tuesday evening. Spectacular display of some fine passes by players belonging to both the teams came to light amidst chants from crazy fans.
Interestingly, this was Delhi’s sixth victory from seven games it has played, and the North India team is now adorned with top position of the table with 32 points on an overall. They are closely followed by the formidable Ranchi Rhinos (27). A major tussle will be on the way for sure, which will give hockey fans enough excitement.
Punjab, who are placed third on the table, resorted to an attacking means of the game on the day, but were totally terrible in the major striking circle.
Promising youngster Akashdeep Singh ensured that the hosts take lead with an incredible reverse hit in the 14th minute, while Kiwi import Andrew Hayward scored off a penalty corner in the 52nd minute to make it 2-0. Simon Child, another recruit from New Zealand, accomplished the formalities in the final minute. Delhi will now take on the Rhinos during its next game at home on Wednesday, which will be a great encounter eagerly awaited.
The elite Indian tournament on the lines of IPL has achieved more focus because of the scintillating performances from players belonging to every team. Irrespective of the success of HIL, it can be definitely said that the players reaped in huge benefits with the provision of maximum amounts to them by their respective franchises.
HIL received a major boost with the participation of international players from countries like New Zealand and Australia. Moreover, few Dutch stars too have brought enough glitz to it in a perfect manner.
Meanwhile, Mumbai Magicians are required to get their act together quickly. The next two days will prove to be important for the bottom-placed side, who are yet to open their account as they have not won at least a single match in the Hockey India League so far.
The hosts will have to shed all the previous inhibitions in order to post some fighting display as they prepare to take on Uttar Pradesh Wizards at the MHA Mahindra Stadium here on Wednesday.
The Magicians will then match their histrionics with the Punjab Warriors on Thursday at the same venue. Back-to-back victories will result in the hosts by getting into the reckoning for the semifinals, while one more defeat could tuck down their chances.
The Wizards have 17 points and two victories in contrast. The two sides will be pitted against each other for the first time and their return leg is also expected to be in Delhi on February 5. It would be interesting to watch how the players will perform amidst increasing pressure on one side and the need to win from the other.
Hockey Indian League is currently adorned with a lot of celebrities already with Bollywood heartthrob Akshay Kumar to join the bandwagon who plans to sing soon.
