Udita played a key role in the team\u2019s campaign throughout the tournament in the absence of India\u2019s regular drag-flicker Deepika, who was sidelined due to an injury. Udita stepped up and took charge of the team\u2019s penalty corners. Amid the added responsibilities, she brilliantly converted three goals while also fulfilling her defensive duties.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
On being named the Player of the Tournament, Udita said, \u201cIt is a proud moment for me to be named the Player of the Tournament. This recognition is very special because I had missed the Pro League matches in Europe earlier this year, and coming back strongly in such an important tournament was always my target. I am grateful to my teammates and coaching staff for believing in me and supporting me throughout this journey.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India started on a high note against China, converting a penalty corner into a goal in the first minute, thanks to Navneet Kaur. However, the hosts came back with a strong reply and scored a goal in the second quarter.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
China completely dominated the second half and scored three more goals as the Indian side failed to score further. However, India had a campaign to remember, and Udita was all praises while speaking of her team\u2019s performance at the tournament.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe played some very good hockey as a unit and showed a lot of character in tough matches. Our victories against teams like Korea and Japan gave us great confidence. Unfortunately, the Final didn\u2019t go our way, but this Silver medal is a step forward and gives us the motivation to keep improving as we prepare for bigger challenges ahead,\u201d the defender added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Further, Udita dedicated her award to the team\u2019s collective effort, saying, \"Individual awards are always special, but for me, it reflects the effort of the entire team. Every player contributed, and I am honoured to represent such a hardworking group. We will learn from this experience and come back even stronger.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe played some very good hockey as a unit and showed a lot of character in tough matches. Our victories against teams like Korea and Japan gave us great confidence. Unfortunately, the Final didn\u2019t go our way, but this Silver medal is a step forward and gives us the motivation to keep improving as we prepare for bigger challenges ahead,\u201d the defender added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Making their way into the Super4s, the Salima Tete-led team defeated Korea 4-2 before losing 1-4 to China. They drew their third game against Japan 1-1 to eventually book themselves a finals berth.<\/p>\r\n\r\n