Daijiworld Media Network - Johor (Malaysia)

Johor (Malaysia), Oct 18: The Indian junior men’s hockey team came agonisingly close to lifting the Sultan of Johor Cup 2025 but were edged out 1–2 by a clinical Australia in a dramatic final on Saturday.

Despite dominating possession and creating a flurry of chances, India were undone by two penalty corner goals from Ian Grobbelaar, the second of which came in the 59th minute to seal victory for the Australians.

India responded bravely after conceding early. After Grobbelaar opened the scoring in the 13th minute, Anmol Ekka drew level just four minutes later with a blistering strike from a penalty corner. From there, it was a fast-paced, end-to-end contest that tested both sides’ attacking intent and defensive resilience.

Indian goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh was instrumental in keeping the scoreline level through much of the game, pulling off multiple saves, including denying Australia another penalty corner before the end of the first quarter.

The Blue Colts created several scoring opportunities — notably through Gurjot Singh, Amir Ali, and Araijeet Singh Hundal — but Australian goalkeeper Magnus McCausland stood firm.

India earned eight penalty corners over the four quarters, but couldn’t convert the crucial ones, with Rohit missing narrowly in the final quarter. Their last push, a flurry of shots in the dying seconds, came heartbreakingly close but failed to deliver the equaliser.

With the win, Australia lifted the Sultan of Johor Cup, while India walked away with pride, having shown grit, flair, and promise throughout the tournament.