The Indian Sub-Junior men’s team secured a 3-1 victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in the gold medal match of the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship. Romit Pal (5′), Ketan Kushwaha (12′), and Shahrukh Ali (13′) scored the goals that crowned India as the Asian champions. India’s dominant and unbeaten campaign, finishing atop the Elite Pool table, showcased their clinical performance.
In a display of early control, India utilized sharp passing and a disciplined structure to take the lead. Romit Pal (5′) opened the scoring by breaking the deadlock in the first half. Captain Ketan Kushwaha (12′) and Shahrukh Ali (13′) extended India’s lead to 3-0 early in the second half. Despite Pakistan pulling one goal back through Muhammad Usman (16′), India’s solid defense ensured a 3-1 victory and the championship title.
Both India and Pakistan, by reaching the final, have secured spots in the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup. The Indian sub-junior women’s team also performed admirably, clinching the silver medal after a hard-fought final against China, resulting in a successful campaign for both Indian contingents.
Hockey India recognized the outstanding achievements of both teams by announcing cash rewards. The gold medal-winning men’s team players will receive Rs 2 lakhs each, while the support staff members will be awarded Rs 1 lakh each. Similarly, each player of the silver medal-winning Indian women’s team will receive Rs 1 lakh, with Rs 50,000 allocated to each support staff member.
