KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16: Hockey was the big winner at the Champions Challenge — that’s the verdict of the coaches at the inaugural tournament won by India on Saturday.

The coaches all agreed that the tournament has come along at the right time as it gives those countries ranked from seventh through 12th the opportunity to play in the Champions Trophy by winning the Challenge.

“Previously, only the elite six are eligible to play in the Champions Trophy while those who are knocking on the door had no avenue to compete against them,” said Indian coach Cedric d’Souza.

“This tournament gives them the chance to join the big boys as after all, hockey is not just about six nations.

“In the past, the top six nations did not have to worry about playing in the elite event but now, they can’t take their place for granted as the last-placed team will be demoted.

“No one will be complacent and in the long run, it is hockey which will emerge victorious.”

Cedric added the Challenge also gives teams the chance to play in a high-quality event every two years.

“What is important is that each country has the equal opportunity to play in top-class tournaments.

“I admit that there is a gap between the top six nations and the rest but that gap is now narrowing,” said Cedric.

“With the World Cup just around the corner, the tournament came along at the right time.”

South African coach Rob Pullen also gave the tournament the thumbs up.

“It was an exciting and challenging tournament with the teams quite evenly matched,” said the former South African international.

“I have had the opportunity to witness five of the teams who will be with us at the World Cup and now need to draw up my plans for next year.

“The extra incentive of trying to qualify for the Champions Trophy has certainly made the tournament more challenging. It has been a good tournament and I hope it carries on.”

Argentina’s Jorge Ruiz meanwhile said that the tournament allowed him to test out several players while at the same time observe his rivals in action.

Malaysian coach Paul Lissek agreed that hockey needs a tournament like the Challenge.

“This tournament has given hockey a boost. There were many exciting matches and the quality was very high.

“With just two months to the World Cup, it is important for all the teams to get as many matches under their belt and that is what this tournament provided,” said the German.—AFP