India hockey team edged out by Australia after thrilling draw

India’s wait for points in th e 2025-26 FIH Pro League finally ended, but not in the manner it would have hoped. After producing one of its most spirited performances of the campaign, the Indian men’s hockey team went down 4-5 in a penalty shootout to host Australia men's national field hockey team following a gripping 2-2 draw in regulation time at the Tasmania Hockey Centre in Hobart on Sunday.

For a side that had endured five straight losses to start the season, this was a display filled with resolve and character.

India drew first blood in the opening quarter. Defender Amit Rohidas stepped up to convert a penalty corner with a precise drag-flick in the 15th minute, giving India a deserved 1-0 lead . Despite Australia’s territorial dominance and attacking pressure, the Indian defence stood firm, absorbing wave after wave of attack with composure.

The visitors struck again in the third quarter. Jugraj Singh doubled the advantage in the 43rd minute, hammering home another powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner. At 2-0 , India appeared in control and confident.

But Australia responded like a seasoned side. Joel Rintala pulled one back in the 47th minute from a penalty corner and then struck again in the 56th minute, once more from a set-piece, to level the scores at 2-2 with just four minutes remaining.

With neither team able to find a winner in regulation time, the contest moved into a shootout. Both sides converted their first four attempts, keeping the tension high. However, India’s Aditya Arjun Lalage was denied in the decisive moment by goalkeeper Jed Snowden , handing the hosts a narrow victory.

Though the shootout loss denied India a bonus point, the draw ensured it opened its account in this year’s FIH Pro League 2025-26 with one point . After a difficult start to the campaign, this performance offers renewed belief ahead of its next clash against Spain on February 24 in the Hobart leg.