India, New Zealand celebrate 100 Years of sporting ties as Hockey strengthens friendship

 

India and New Zealand are celebrating 100 years of sporting ties in 2026. Hockey, which started this journey in 1926, continues to bring the two countries closer. Akashvani’s correspondent reports that the sporting relationship began in 1926 when the Indian Army Hockey Team became the first Indian sports team to tour New Zealand.

 

The legendary Major Dhyan Chand was also part of that historic team, making it one of the most memorable chapters in hockey history. A hundred years later, the friendship continues to grow. Earlier this year, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team won the FIH Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland by defeating host New Zealand in the final.

 

Former Hockey New Zealand CEO and 1976 Olympic Gold Medallist Ramesh Patel says Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit will further strengthen sports cooperation between the two countries. As India and New Zealand celebrate a century of sporting ties, hockey remains a strong bridge of friendship, connecting the people of both countries and inspiring future generations.