Ipoh

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team delivered an impressive performance to edge out New Zealand 3-2 in a hard-fought match at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Stadium in Ipoh on Thursday. Amit Rohidas (4’), Sanjay (32’) and Selvam Karthi (54’) scored for India, while George Baker struck twice for New Zealand (42’, 48’).

New Zealand began aggressively, pushing India's defence in the early minutes, but the backline held firm. India capitalised on their first major opportunity when a well-executed move earned them a penalty corner, which Amit Rohidas converted with a powerful drag-flick. India nearly doubled their lead, but the New Zealand goalkeeper denied Abhishek from close range as India ended the first quarter 1-0 ahead.

The Black Sticks continued to search for an equaliser in the second quarter, earning a penalty corner of their own. However, India’s defence stayed composed and ensured the one-goal cushion remained intact at halftime.

India started the second half with greater intensity. Captain Sanjay extended the lead to 2-0 with a penalty corner conversion in the 32nd minute. New Zealand responded with pressure of their own, earning multiple penalty corners. Indian goalkeeper Pawan delivered a remarkable performance but was finally beaten when George Baker pulled one back for New Zealand in the 42nd minute.

The final quarter saw fast-paced action, with Baker converting again in the 48th minute to make it 2-2. India quickly regained control as Abhishek set up Selvam Karthi, who scored in the 54th minute to restore the lead. India missed a chance to seal the game through a penalty stroke but held their nerve in the closing minutes to secure a deserving 3-2 victory.

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India will face Canada next on November 29.