India had to settle for Silver After a Late Heartbreak Against Australia in the Sultan of Johor Cup Final
Johor Bahru, Malaysia:
India’s stance at the Sultan of Johor Cup ended in heartbreak on Friday as the junior men’s hockey team went down 1–2 to Australia in an overwhelming final. Despite dominating possession for large parts of the game, India was undone by a late Australian goal that guaranteed the gold for the Australians.
The match began at an energetic pace, with both sides showcasing high-intensity hockey from the start. Australia struck first when Ian Grobbelaar converted a well-executed penalty corner, putting the Indians under early pressure in the game.
India responded with composure and maturity. Just minutes later, midfielder Anmol Ekka found the equaliser, finishing off a quick build-up from the right flank. The goal lifted India’s tempo, and for the remainder of the half, they looked the sharper of the two teams, pressing high and forcing turnovers in midfield.
The second half saw a flurry of half-chances equally for both sides. India’s forwards repeatedly broke into the Australian circle, earning a series of penalty corners, but their finishing touch deserted them. Skipper Priyobarta Talem marshalled the midfield well, distributing the ball with intent, while goalkeeper Mohammad Amir Ali made crucial saves to keep India in contention.
As the match headed into its final moments, fatigue began to show. Australia earned a penalty corner in the 59th minute, and Grobbelaar once again rose to the occasion, smashing home what would become the match-winning goal.
The young Indian side threw everything forward in the dying seconds, even earning six consecutive penalty corners in added time. But Australian goalkeeper Magnus McCausland stood firm, pulling off back-to-back saves to deny India a dramatic equaliser.
When the final whistle blew, there were tears, but also a sense of pride. This silver medal marks India’s fifth runner-up finish at the Sultan of Johor Cup, which is evidence of their consistency at the junior level.
Speaking after the match, coach PR Sreejesh praised his team’s fighting spirit. The boys played fearless hockey. We created enough chances to win but couldn’t capitalise. Still, this experience will shape them for the senior level, he said.
For a squad filled with fresh faces and debutants, this campaign was more than a tournament; it was a learning curve. India’s aggressive pressing, structured defence, and improved counter-attacks drew praise throughout the week, even from rival coaches.
While the gold slipped away by the narrowest of margins, this silver medal shines bright for a team that continues to build its identity on the world stage.
