Meanwhile, the Indian Under-21 team also successfully defended the Sultan of Johor Cup title which also made the year more special and memorable for hockey fans.
But the mood was soured by the resignation of Walsh, who demanded an improved contract that would give him better functional autonomy in team's decision-making, most notably in selecting the players.
Despite valiant efforts by Sports Minister Sarabananda Sonowal and the SAI, Walsh didn't agree to continue. He was also not happy with Batra rekindling his alleged financial irregularities during his tenure with US Hockey. Thus departed India's fourth foreign coach.
The Indian team did try to get over from the controversy but their Champions Trophy performance was inconsistent. They lost to Germany and Argentina but won against the Dutch after 18 years. In the quarterfinals, the ninth-ranked team defeated World No.4 Belgium. But they didn't managed to get past against traditional rivals Pakistan in the semifinal and set up a Bronze medal match against Australia.
