FIH Men’s Pro League: India win 3-1 in shootout vs Aus

India concluded their Hobart leg of the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025–26 on a high note, defeating Australia 3-1 in a shootout after a tightly contested 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The match was marked by intense competition from the start. Australia dominated possession in the opening quarter, but India’s defense held firm. Goalkeeper Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar made crucial saves to keep the hosts at bay.
India earned their first penalty corner in the 11th minute, but Amandeep Lakra’s drag flick was blocked. Abhishek later came close with a shot that narrowly missed the target.
The second quarter saw both teams creating opportunities. Abhishek set up Manmeet Singh in the 16th minute, but the Australian goalkeeper denied the attempt. Australia earned a penalty corner in the 25th minute, only to be thwarted by Suraj Karkera’s sharp stick save.
India pressed again in the third quarter, earning a penalty corner in the 38th minute, but Araijeet Singh Hundal’s effort was stopped. Australia responded with consecutive penalty corners in the 42nd and 45th minutes. Joel Rintala’s drag flick hit the post, and Shashikumar produced a series of outstanding saves to keep India level.
The deadlock was broken in the final quarter when Australian captain Jeremy Hayward converted a penalty corner in the 49th minute. India responded swiftly just two minutes later. Hardik Singh initiated the attack, Abhishek advanced on the right, and Poovanna Chandura Boby set up Shilanand Lakra, who scored the equalizer at the 51st minute.
India carried momentum into the closing stages, earning multiple penalty corners and creating chances, but neither side could find a winner in regulation time.
The match proceeded to a shootout, where India prevailed 3-1. Shilanand Lakra, Maninder Singh, and Vishnukant Singh converted their attempts, while goalkeeper Shashikumar stood tall with three decisive saves. His performance proved pivotal in securing the bonus point for India.
The victory capped off India’s Hobart campaign with resilience and composure, showcasing their defensive strength and ability to respond under pressure.