The shootout win gave India a positive finish before the Hockey World Cup in August. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The Indian men’s hockey team ended its FIH Pro League 2025-26 campaign with a 3-2 shootout win over England after a hard-fought 0-0 draw at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London on Sunday.

Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra and Hardik Singh converted their attempts in the shootout as India claimed the bonus point from a contest built on defensive resilience and composure under pressure. Defender Sanjay was named Player of the Match for his assured performance at the back.

England started brightly and earned an early penalty corner after Sam Ward won one off Yashdeep Singh. India goalkeeper Mohith Shashikumar responded with a double save before producing another fine stop to deny Ward as India survived sustained early pressure.

India’s best chance of the opening quarter came through Abhishek, but England had the better of the early exchanges. The host continued to press in the second quarter and came close through Nicholas Bandurak, while Jarmanpreet Singh forced a save at the other end.

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India returned after half-time with more attacking intent. Hardik led a dangerous counterattack and later earned a penalty corner in the 37th minute, but Amandeep Lakra could not convert.

A major moment came late in the third quarter when England was awarded a penalty stroke after Yashdeep was adjudged to have fouled Henry Croft. India reviewed the decision successfully, with replays confirming a clean challenge.

England pushed again in the final quarter and won a late penalty corner, but India held firm. With two seconds remaining, England was awarded another penalty corner, only for India to overturn the call through another successful referral.

Published on Jun 28, 2026