Beauty Dungdung’s Impactful Return Boosts Indian Women’s Hockey Team in Olympic Qualifiers

Midfielder Beauty Dungdung has made a significant impact on her return to the Indian Women’s Hockey Team during the ongoing Olympic Qualifiers in Ranchi 2024. Securing a notable 3-1 victory over New Zealand in their second match, India, positioned in Pool B, now holds a crucial confidence boost for their upcoming final Pool game against Italy scheduled for January 16.

Beauty Dungdung, absent since the Test matches between South Africa and India in Cape Town in January 2023 due to a major injury and subsequent surgery in March, expressed her joy at being back in the squad. The 21-year-old midfielder contributed to India’s win on Sunday, sharing her satisfaction, “I am enjoying my return to the team. It had been a long time since I had been a part of the squad. So, it feels good that I was able to make my way back into the team after an injury and was able to contribute to the win over New Zealand.”

Reflecting on her challenging rehabilitation period after the injury last February, Beauty opened up about the pain and the motivation she drew from her teammates and coaching staff. “Until you have the mindset to return, it becomes even more difficult,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of mental strength during recovery.

Acknowledging the support received, Beauty mentioned the motivation from Chief Coach Janneke Schopman, who encouraged her to view the injury as an opportunity for self-improvement. “I realized that if you have a strong mind, it helps in increasing your focus on your game,” she added.

Elated to compete in the Olympic Qualifiers in front of the home crowd, Beauty expressed her excitement and hoped that India would secure a spot for the prestigious event in Paris. Playing in familiar conditions, she found it easier to adapt and was thrilled to have friends and family witnessing her matches.

Despite the added pressure of playing in her home state, Beauty highlighted the team’s focus on mental preparation through daily yoga and mindfulness exercises. She emphasized the team’s motto of not succumbing to pressure before matches and always giving their best.

Looking ahead to the next game against Italy, Beauty emphasized that the team won’t underestimate any opponent, stating, “All the teams in the competition are equally tough.” She added that Italy has displayed strong performances and the team will analyze their games, sticking to their strengths with the hope of achieving positive results.

In summary, Beauty Dungdung’s impactful return and India’s confident win against New Zealand set an optimistic tone as the team aims for a coveted spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

-IANS