India's Junior Men's Hockey Team Advances to Final of Sultan of Johor Cup
India, 8 January 2026 — The Indian junior men's hockey team secured a spot in the final of the Sultan of Johor Cup after defeating Australia in a thrilling semi-final match held in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The encounter took place on Saturday, where India emerged victorious with a 5-4 win in a closely contested game. This victory propels the team into the final, scheduled to take place on Sunday, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final between Great Britain and Malaysia.
The match against Australia saw a strong performance from the Indian team, with forward Raj Kumar Pal scoring two crucial goals. Other notable contributions came from captain Uttam Singh and vice-captain Sudeep Chirmako, who each found the back of the net, while the winning goal was netted by Maninder Singh in the final minutes of the game.
The Sultan of Johor Cup is a prominent under-21 hockey tournament that serves as a critical platform for emerging talent in the sport. The Indian team's progression to the finals underscores their strong performance throughout the tournament, having remained unbeaten in the group stage with victories against South Africa, Malaysia, and Japan, along with a draw against Great Britain.
Coach Graham Reid expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting their resilience and tactical discipline. "The boys showed great composure and fighting spirit to come back and win the match. It was a collective effort, and we are looking forward to the final," he stated in a post-match interview.
India has a successful history in the Sultan of Johor Cup, having won the tournament multiple times in the past. This year's edition sees the team aiming to reclaim the title they last won in 2019. The final match is anticipated to be a competitive affair, with the Indian team hoping to continue their strong form and clinch the trophy once more.
As the tournament reaches its climax, the Indian team's performance serves as an encouraging sign for the future of Indian hockey, with several players showcasing their potential on the international stage. The final will be closely watched by fans and experts alike as India strives to secure another prestigious title.