HI awards Sushant Tirkey Rs 1 lakh; team members get iPads

In a felicitation function held for the team at a city hotel here yesterday, HI presented Tirkey, who was declared the best goalkeeper of the tournament, with a cheque of Rs one lakh for his brilliant exploits under the bar.

During the function, HI also announced that it would present an iPad each to all the 18 members and the support staffs of the team.

"We are happy that the junior team came home after a good showing in the Sultan of Johor Cup. It has come as good preparation for the team that will compete in the FIH Junior Men's World Cup in India in December 2013," Hockey India secretary general Narinder Batra said in a statement.

Speaking on behalf of the entire team, Tirkey said the rewards came as an encouragement for the players.

"We feel happy that Hockey India has recognised our efforts. I can assure you that I will continue to work hard and contribute towards bringing India back in the elite league of hockey nations," he said.