How India Won Its First Asian Games Hockey Gold

In 1966, India played Pakistan in the Asian Games hockey final in Bangkok.

India wanted its first gold medal at the Asian Games.

The players sang a patriotic song on their team bus to stay motivated.

Early in the match, one Indian player was hurt.

Because substitutions were not allowed, India played with only 10 players for most of the game.

Neither team scored during the regular match or the first part of extra time.

Then injured player Balbir Singh returned with a bandaged knee and scored the only goal.

India won the gold medal, and Harbinder Singh still remembers the victory proudly.

He says hockey is now faster but believes its older skill and artistry should be encouraged.