New Delhi, Oct 3 (IANS): Hockey India (HI) congratulated its bronze medal winning women's team and extended a grand welcome to them Friday on their return here from the Incheon Asian Games.

The team defeated Japan 2-1 Wednesday to claim third spot. South Korea won gold while China clinched silver.

"It's a proud moment for the country that our women's team have won the bronze medal at the 17th Asian Games. Each player of the team contributed towards this glory and I am proud of this team and wish them continued success in the future," HI secretary general Narinder Batra said.

India captain Ritu Rani said her team will aim to better themselves in the future.

"The entire team is ecstatic by this win. When we lost our semi-final, we were adamant to take the bronze by beating Japan. I am happy that we played with elan and won the match. We will aim to continue this form and better ourselves in our performances in the future," Ritu said.