On a damp evening in Antwerp, Indian hockey stood witness to a poignant contrast the celebration of a legend and the continuation of a troubling slide. India lost Sixth consecutive match in FIH Pro League
As Manpreet Singh, one of Indian hockey’s most iconic midfield generals, stepped onto the turf for the 400th time in national colours, he was welcomed with warmth and reverence. But by the time the final whistle blew, the mood had soured, with India falling to a sixth straight defeat in the FIH Pro League 2024-25 a 2-3 loss to old rivals Australia.
A Guard of Honour for a Modern Great
The match began not with stick clashing against ball, but with sticks raised in salute. Players from both India and Australia lined up on either side, forming a guard of honour as Manpreet jogged out onto the pitch a moment rich in symbolism and mutual respect. To add a special touch, the Australian team presented him with a signed jersey, acknowledging not just a milestone but a fierce competitor they’ve battled for more than a decade.
Manpreet, who debuted in 2011, has seen it all from a last-place finish at London 2012 to Olympic bronze in Tokyo. His 400th match is not just a number; it’s a testament to endurance, discipline, and leadership. Few Indian players have managed to sustain this level of performance and intensity across 14 years, and fewer still have worn the captain’s armband with such resilience in the face of adversity.
A Familiar Collapse
But once the ceremonial applause faded, it was back to business and India, once again, found themselves repeating old errors. Despite starting brightly and taking a 1-0 lead through Sanjay, who scored with a clean drag-flick early in the first quarter, the momentum shifted quickly and decisively.
Tim Brand responded almost instantly for Australia, scoring a goal and then setting up another in the span of a minute, flipping the script before India could settle. Blake Govers, ever the thorn in India’s side, made it 3-1 soon after with a powerful finish off a penalty corner. By halftime, the Kookaburras led 3-1 and could well have had more if not for some sharp goalkeeping.
India did pull one back in the third quarter. A promising move built by Shilanand Lakra and Abhishek culminated in a smart finish by Dilpreet Singh a poacher’s effort that showed the value of persistence. The goal offered hope, but the comeback never truly materialised.
Six Defeats, Six One-Goal Margins
With the 2-3 scoreline, India registered their sixth consecutive defeat in the Pro League all by a margin of just one goal. Yet, Sunday’s match didn’t feel as close as the scoreboard suggested. Australia’s control in transition, superior game management, and clinical execution in key moments always had them a step ahead.
Coach Craig Fulton and his staff now face difficult questions. While the Pro League does serve as a testing ground especially in a season building towards the 2026 World Cup the optics of six straight defeats are hard to ignore. And while three of those losses have come against top-tier opposition in Australia, Netherlands, and Belgium, the manner of the defeats will sting.
There is a case for calm analysis. This isn’t a team being outclassed or overrun. In several matches, including this one, India have matched their opponents for significant stretches. But lapses in concentration, poor penalty corner conversion, and inconsistent selection continue to hold them back. That India conceded leads in multiple games including this one reflects a worrying mental pattern, not just a tactical flaw.
Selection Questions Linger
Several former players and analysts have voiced concerns about squad selection. A few players who haven’t been consistent performers over the years continue to find themselves in the mix, raising eyebrows. In contrast, some young prospects showing promise on the domestic circuit are yet to get a run.
Fulton has spoken previously about long-term planning and giving players extended chances, but results and momentum do matter. With the World Cup qualification route still linked to Pro League standings, the luxury of experimentation might soon run out.
Manpreet’s Legacy Shines Through
Amid the tactical breakdowns and scoreboard frustrations, Manpreet Singh’s milestone offered a rare feel-good moment. His career has spanned coaching changes, tactical revolutions, and cultural shifts in Indian hockey. Through it all, he has remained a constant tireless in midfield, unflinching in leadership, and ever-willing to put his body on the line.
The signed Australian jersey, the guard of honour, and the applause from both sets of players were more than gestures they were acknowledgments of a player who has earned respect globally. It’s not often that fierce rivals make space for warmth, especially in elite sport, but for Manpreet, it came naturally.
India have more matches to play in this European leg, and there’s still time to salvage points and pride. But the margin for error is shrinking. The team’s spirit and resolve will be tested not just by opposition quality, but by the weight of recent results.
Manpreet’s 400th was a celebration of perseverance. The days ahead will require the same. Indian hockey needs to remember how to grind out results again and perhaps, in doing so, draw inspiration from the man who just reached 400.