Jugraj Singh’s first hat-trick of the season propelled the Shrachi Bengal Tigers to a dominant 5-3 victory over the Tamil Nadu Dragons in the ongoing Hockey India League 2026 (Men) at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. This win was crucial for the Tigers, elevating them from 7th to fourth place in the pool standings and keeping their league hopes alive.
The match saw Jugraj becoming only the second player this season to achieve a hat-trick, following Kane Rusell from HIL GC team. Goals from Sukhjeet and Abhishek further solidified the Tigers’ win, while Adrohit Ekka, Thomas Sorsby, and Blake Govers scored for the Dragons.
Defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers took an early lead with a penalty stroke converted by Jugraj Singh. Despite a goalless second quarter, the Tigers surged ahead in the third quarter with a goal by Sukhjeet Singh, showcasing a strong performance.
The Tigers extended their lead to 4-1 with Jugraj Singh’s additional goals in the 43rd and 45th minutes. However, the Dragons fought back in the final quarter, narrowing the gap to 4-3 with goals from Sorsby and Govers. A crucial penalty corner in the 55th minute, converted by Abhishek, sealed the Tigers’ 5-3 victory.
