The International Olympic Committee approved the inclusion of hockey in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics on the condition that not more than 12 teams, including the hosts, would take part. The international hockey federation (FIH) received entries from 16 nations. They shrunk down the list to 12 based on the rankings.
This, however, in no way impacted India's dominance. The extent of their superiority was clearly evident from their performance. After a first-round bye, India defeated Austria 4-0 to set up a semifinal clash with Great Britain. Led by Digvijay Singh 'Babu', India eased past Great Britain 3-1. In the other semifinal, Pakistan, who had enjoyed a good run, were caught napping by Holland.
India gave a brilliant account of themselves in the final, overwhelming the Dutch 6-1. This was India's fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal.
Of the 13 goals India scored in the tournament, Balbir Singh Sr scored nine, including five in the final. Chinnadorai Desamuthu became the youngest gold medallist for India. He was 19 years and 272 days when India were crowned champions.
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