Defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers kicked off their Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2025–26 campaign with a convincing 3–1 victory over JSW Soorma Hockey Club at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium. Sukhjeet Singh (33’), Abhishek (45’), and Gursewak Singh (60’) scored for the Tigers, while Prabhjot Singh (54’) netted one for Soorma.
The match began evenly, with both teams trying to find their rhythm. JSW Soorma attempted to test the Tigers’ defense with long passes, while the Tigers focused on swift counter-attacks. Despite some promising plays from both sides, the first 15 minutes remained goalless.
In the second quarter, the Bengal Tigers took control of the game, dominating possession. Abhishek was a standout player, earning multiple penalty corners, but Soorma’s goalkeeper, Vincent Vanasch, made crucial saves to keep his team in contention. The teams headed into halftime with the score tied.
Shrachi Bengal Tigers broke the deadlock early in the third quarter when Sukhjeet Singh deftly redirected Tom Grambusch’s penalty-corner flick into the net. They extended their lead later in the quarter through Abhishek’s composed finish. Despite Soorma pulling one back through Prabhjot Singh in the final quarter, the Tigers sealed the win with Gursewak Singh’s goal in the closing minute.
Sukhjeet Singh was awarded the player of the match for his impactful performance as the Bengal Tigers started their title defense on a positive note.
