India Edge New Zealand 3–2 to Go Top of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Table

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team delivered a composed, resilient, and sharp all-round performance to secure a 3–2 victory over New Zealand at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Stadium in Ipoh on Thursday.

The win, shaped by goals from Amit Rohidas (4’), captain Sanjay (32’), and Selvam Karthi (54’), pushed India to the top of the tournament standings. New Zealand’s George Baker scored twice (42’, 48’) to keep the contest alive, but India’s response under pressure proved decisive.

India entered the match aware that a win would significantly strengthen their campaign, and despite New Zealand’s strong start, it was the Men in Blue who struck early. The Black Sticks controlled possession in the opening exchanges and looked to test the Indian defence with their high pressing. But India stayed compact, cutting off circle entries and preventing any early threats.

The match’s first major opening arrived when India stitched together a swift attacking move that earned them their first Penalty Corner. Amit Rohidas stepped up and, true to his reputation as one of India’s most reliable drag-flickers, powered the ball home in the 4th minute. The early breakthrough settled India’s rhythm and forced New Zealand onto the back foot.

India could have doubled their lead later in the quarter when Abhishek found space inside the circle, but the New Zealand goalkeeper’s sharp reflexes ensured the score remained 1–0. The opening period ended with India slightly ahead in momentum, though New Zealand’s intent was evident.

The second quarter saw the Black Sticks increase their urgency. They pushed numbers forward and attempted to stretch the Indian backline, forcing a Penalty Corner of their own. India’s defensive unit, however, held firm, with the first rusher and post players combining effectively to deny the equaliser. Despite New Zealand’s improved circulation of the ball, India absorbed the pressure well and went into halftime with their narrow lead intact. India began the third quarter with much more purpose, and the impact was immediate. Just two minutes into the second half, captain Sanjay converted a Penalty Corner to make it 2–0. The goal reflected India’s growing confidence and their control over set-piece situations.

New Zealand, sensing the urgency, threw everything forward and earned back-to-back Penalty Corners. Indian goalkeeper Pawan was outstanding, producing sharp saves that kept the two-goal cushion intact. But New Zealand finally broke through in the 42nd minute when George Baker finished a well-worked PC variation to pull one back. The goal shifted the momentum, setting the stage for a tense final quarter.

The fourth quarter began with New Zealand fully on the offensive. Their pressure paid off in the 48th minute when Baker struck again, this time with a clean drag-flick, levelling the contest at 2–2. With the game suddenly wide open, India needed composure and they found it through a moment of smart attacking play.

In the 54th minute, Abhishek created space on the right flank and delivered an incisive pass to Selvam Karthi, who timed his run perfectly before tapping in India’s third goal. The finish highlighted Karthi’s poaching instincts and India’s efficiency in decisive moments.

India soon had a chance to seal the match through a penalty stroke but were unable to convert. Still, the defensive unit stepped up in the final minutes, managing the tempo well and preventing New Zealand from finding another breakthrough.

With the 3–2 win, India not only maintained their unbeaten run but also climbed to the top of the table, showcasing balance between their defensive resilience and attacking clarity.

India will next face Canada on 29 November at 1330 hours IST. All matches of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 are being broadcast live on FanCode.