The Jagtar Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament Committee has pitched for the city to host key fixtures, including a semi-final or the final, of the upcoming Men’s Asian Champions Trophy.The tournament will be organised by the state government in October and November at the Surjit Hockey Stadium, Jalandhar.The demand was formally raised on Saturday during a meeting of the association at its head office in Model Town.Emphasising Ludhiana’s rich sports legacy, members of the committee said hosting high-profile matches will significantly boost the game at the grassroots and inspire young players in the region.The committee highlighted that Ludhiana has consistently produced talented players, and has the infrastructure and enthusiasm required to host major international matches.The members said granting the city an important role in the tournament will further strengthen the state’s position as a hub of hockey in the country.Gurinderpreet Singh, general secretary of the association, expressed gratitude to Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain for his support and encouragement during the ninth edition of the All India Jagtar Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament, recently organised at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU).“His (Jain’s) contribution to the initiative was acknowledged during his visit to the committee’s office earlier this month. He assured cooperation on behalf of the district administration in the future as well. The souvenir of the tournament will be released in April, in the presence of renowned hockey Olympians and district administration officials,” said Gurinderpreet Singh.Over the years, the Jagtar Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament has grown into a significant platform for nurturing talent and celebrating the sport. The committee is hopeful that Ludhiana will get due representation in the international event, added Singh.