Jalandhar/Chandigarh, Oct 25: Vibrant musical performances and public enthusiasm greeted international sports delegations upon their arrival at Burlton Park in Jalandhar.
Athletes from Bangladesh, Japan, China, Korea, and Malaysia assembled at the Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium for preparatory practice sessions, supported by welcoming crowds composed of residents and aspiring young athletes ahead of the upcoming championship fixtures.
The hosting of the Asian Champions Trophy stands as a key milestone, being organized in Punjab for the first time.
The arrangement was made possible through dedicated measures pursued by the administration led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, positioning the state to host a premier continental event.
Comprehensive support structures have been organized by regional authorities to provide hospitality, secure environments, and necessary facilities for all participating contingents, which comprise India, Japan, South Korea, China, Malaysia, and Bangladesh.
The competition schedule begins at the Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium with opening fixtures pairing Malaysia against China, Japan facing Korea, and India competing against Bangladesh following the inaugural ceremony.
Initial group fixtures will proceed in Jalandhar before the tournament moves to the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior Hockey Stadium in Mohali for the concluding stages and final match.
