India beat Great Britain 3-2 in a thrilling campaign opener at the Sultan of Johor Cup 2025 in Johor Bahru on Saturday.
Captain Rohit scored twice while Ravneet Singh added one goal to seal the win.
Both teams played fast-paced, end-to-end hockey in the first quarter but failed to score. India earned two penalty corners in the opening 16 minutes, but Great Britain’s defense held firm. Manmeet Singh nearly scored in the 22nd minute, but a goal-line clearance denied him.
India broke through in the 23rd minute. Gurjot Singh made a strong run down the right and delivered a precise pass to Ravneet, who finished with style. Great Britain responded quickly. Max Anderson set up Michael Royden, who equalized in the 26th minute.
The third quarter saw intense midfield battles. In the 45th minute, Indian goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh made a crucial save from a penalty corner. Seconds later, India earned a penalty corner, and Rohit scored with a powerful dragflick.
Great Britain equalized again in the 46th minute through a penalty stroke converted by Kaden Draysey. India pushed forward and earned three consecutive penalty corners. Rohit converted the third in the 52nd minute to restore the lead.
India held on to secure the win. The team will face New Zealand in its next match on Sunday.
