The Indian Hockey Federation has scope to unearth new talent to represent the nation, when the 83rd MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup All India Hockey championship starts in Chennai on Sunday.
The cream of hockey stars, including some who were part of the non-performing Indian squad in the Doha Games and also up and coming stars representing a dozen state and club teams, will be seen in action in the 10-day championship.
Arun Murugappan, Vice-President, Parry Enterprises India Ltd., told a press meet today that the tournament, started in 1962, has witnessed many stalwarts in action and provided a platform for administrators to find talent. "We are committed in our decision to promote the game in the country" he said.
K Prem Kumar, President, MCC, said the best player of the tournament would receive the 'A L Lakshmanan memorial trophy'. The recipient of the award would also receive a cash prize of Rs 10,000 and a Hercules bicycle, he said.
S L Rajiv Reddy, Organising Secretary said IHF has fielded its developmental team in place of IHF Juniors for this year's event, which offers Rs 1.30 lakh and Rs 80,000 for the winner and runner-up respectively.
"Twelve teams have been divided into four groups to play on a league cup knockout basis. Each group winner will figure in quarterfinals to be played on Dec 22 and 23. The final will be played on Dec 25," he said.
{{/usCountry}}"Twelve teams have been divided into four groups to play on a league cup knockout basis. Each group winner will figure in quarterfinals to be played on Dec 22 and 23. The final will be played on Dec 25," he said.
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