Indian forward Lalremsiami celebrated a landmark day by becoming the first Indian woman to score in three consecutive World Cups and the first athlete from Mizoram nominated for the Arjuna Award.
India forward Lalremsiami scripted history at the Wagener Stadion by becoming the first Indian woman to score in three successive World Cups. She achieved the feat after scoring India's fifth goal in a dominant 6-1 victory over South Africa.
The landmark goal capped off a memorable day for the 26-year-old attacker, who earlier became the first athlete from Mizoram to be nominated for the prestigious Arjuna Award. Speaking on the national sports honour, Lalremsiami said, "I am deeply honoured. It is motivating for me to keep working hard."
Originating from Kolasib, a northern district in Mizoram, Lalremsiami made her senior side debut at the age of 17. She has since scored 65 goals in 208 appearances, contributing significantly to India's double Asian Games podium finishes and a Commonwealth Games bronze medal. "Everyone who supported me in my journey is very happy. Where I come from, hockey is not that big. Many people did not believe the award news," she shared.
Addressing the transition within ninth-ranked India following the departure of several senior players post-Olympics, Lalremsiami expressed confidence in the team's rebuilding process under coach Sjoerd Marijne. "After the Olympics, many senior players left the team. So it took time for the team to rebuild. We are slowly building the team. Now Sjoerd is back and he has a lot of faith in the team. He has instilled positive qualities in the team," she added.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Hockey. Photo courtesy The Hindu Hockey.