The Indian men’s hockey team signed off its FIH Pro League 2025-26 campaign with a hard-earned 3-2 shootout victory over England after the two sides played out a goalless draw in regulation time at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London on Sunday.
With neither team able to break the deadlock across four quarters, India held its nerve in the shootout to secure the bonus point. Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra and Hardik Singh converted their chances, while disciplined defending throughout the contest laid the foundation for the victory. Defender Sanjay was named Player of the Match for his composed display at the back.
England made the brighter start and put India under immediate pressure. An early penalty corner, won by Sam Ward after a challenge involving Yashdeep Singh, tested the Indian defence. Goalkeeper Mohith Shashikumar produced a pair of sharp saves before denying Ward once again to keep the hosts off the scoresheet during a dominant opening spell.
India’s best opportunity in the first quarter came through Abhishek, but England continued to enjoy the better chances. The home side remained on the front foot in the second quarter, with Nicholas Bandurak going close, while India responded through Jarmanpreet Singh, whose effort was kept out by the England goalkeeper.
The visitors emerged with greater attacking intent after the break. Hardik Singh sparked a promising counterattack before winning a penalty corner in the 37th minute. However, Amandeep Lakra was unable to convert the opportunity as England’s defence held firm.
A defining moment arrived late in the third quarter when England was awarded a penalty stroke after Yashdeep Singh was ruled to have fouled Henry Croft inside the circle. India immediately opted for a referral, and the decision was overturned after replays confirmed a clean challenge, handing the visitors a significant reprieve.
England continued to search for a breakthrough in the closing stages and earned a penalty corner late in the fourth quarter, but India’s defence stood strong. In a dramatic finish, the hosts were awarded another penalty corner with just two seconds remaining. India once again used its referral successfully, overturning the decision and ensuring the match would be decided in a shootout.
India maintained its composure from the spot, converting three of its attempts to seal a 3-2 shootout win and finish its Pro League campaign with a confidence-boosting result built on disciplined defending, resilient goalkeeping and calm execution under pressure.
