India’s World Cup hockey journey from 1971 bronze to 2023

India’s men’s hockey team has had a roller-coaster journey in the World Cup, from winning the inaugural bronze in 1971 to lifting the title in 1975 and then enduring a long wait for another podium finish. The eight-time Olympic champions’ only World Cup triumph came in Kuala Lumpur in 1975, when Ajit Pal Singh’s side defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 2-1 in the final. Pakistan remain the most successful team in the tournament with four titles, while...