Daijiworld Media Network - Muscat

Muscat, Jul 26: The Indian sub-junior men's hockey team defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 in the final to clinch the gold medal at the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship.

Romit Pal, captain Ketan Kushwaha and Shahrukh Ali scored for India in a dominant performance that also saw the team finish at the top of the Elite Pool standings.

India made a bright start to the title clash, controlling possession with disciplined play. Romit Pal opened the scoring in the first half to hand India a 1-0 lead at the break.

The defending side extended its advantage soon after the restart when captain Ketan Kushwaha doubled the lead before Shahrukh Ali added a third goal to make it 3-0.

Pakistan reduced the deficit through Muhammad Usman, but India's defence remained resolute to seal a convincing 3-1 victory and lift the championship trophy.

By reaching the final, both India and Pakistan also secured qualification for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup.

In the women's competition, the Indian sub-junior team finished with the silver medal after a closely contested final against China.

Congratulating both teams on their performances, Hockey India announced cash rewards for the medal winners. Each player of the gold medal-winning men's team will receive Rs 2 lakh, while every member of the support staff will be awarded Rs 1 lakh.

Players of the silver medal-winning women's team will receive Rs 1 lakh each, with members of the support staff set to receive Rs 50,000 each.