New Delhi, Apr 14 : Loud applause greeted members of the Indian hockey team on their arrival here on Monday night after their resplendent win at the Azlan Shah Cup tournament in Malaysia.

Crediting the victory to team effort, Sandeep Singh, the team''s captain said, "It is the hard work put in by our team which we are seeing now. It is a joint effort of our coaches and the team members."

The coach of the team termed the victory a good beginning for Indian hockey.

"This is a first step. We have long way to go. This victory has taught us many lessons, which are important. This win is a good beginning for Indian hockey," said Harendra Singh, a team coach.

The team led by captain Sandeep Singh beat Malaysia 3-1 in the final on April 12 to register their fourth title win after 13 years.

India last won the tournament in 1995. (ANI)