India closer to Champions Trophy

Leading 2-0 at half time, India added another four goals early in the second half, three of them coming from Rani’s stick.

Rani scored in the 17th, 38th, 44th and 54th minutes. Veteran Saba Anjum (20th) and Chanchan Devi (49th) were the other scorers for the Indian team.

With this triumph, India qualified for Champions Challenge I tournament, to be held in October in South Africa, which is the qualifier for the elite Champions Trophy next year.

Besides being the match-winner, Rani also finished as the event’s top scorer and was named the Young Player of the tournament. India skipper Surinder Kaur was named Player of the Tournament.

Both sides had their chances in the first 15 minutes, but India opened the scoring when Rani scored the first of her four goals in the 17th minute. India extended the lead three minutes later through Saba’s field goal.

After leading 2-0 at half time, India kept attacking with Rani scoring her second goal three minutes into the second half.

Belgium tried hard for a comeback but Rani struck twice to make the scoreline 6-2 with only 15 minutes remaining.

Ireland won the bronze medal after defeating Ukraine in the third-place match.

Belarus claimed the fifth position after a victory over Canada. Malaysia finished seventh and hosts Russia were eighth.