Late in the first quarter, India earned a penalty corner, and Rohidas converted with a precise drag flick to put the visitors ahead.
FIH Men’s Pro League: India lose 4-5 in shootout after 2-2 draw against Australia/ Credit: Hockey India
The Indian men’s hockey team suffered a narrow 4-5 defeat in a penalty shootout against hosts Australia after a 2-2 draw in regulation time in the second match of the Hobart leg of the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025-26 at the Tasmania Hockey Centre on Sunday.
India took the lead twice through drag-flick goals by Amit Rohidas (15’) and Jugraj Singh (43’), but Australia fought back with a brace from Joel Rintala (47’, 56’) to force the match into a shootout. The Kookaburras eventually clinched the bonus point after goalkeeper Jed Snowden saved Aditya Arjun Lalage’s decisive attempt.
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Australia dominated possession early on, but India’s defence held firm, gradually growing into the contest. Late in the first quarter, India earned a penalty corner, and Rohidas converted with a precise drag flick to put the visitors ahead.
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The second quarter saw end-to-end action, with both teams creating chances, but India maintained their slender lead at halftime with disciplined defending.
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Australia stage late comeback to draw level in the final quarter and follow that up with a shoot-out win to take the bonus point in the #FIHProLeague.
Stream all the matches live on https://t.co/71D0pOpuZ8.… pic.twitter.com/puQa0EBCU8
— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) February 22, 2026
After the break, Australia pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but India’s backline stood strong. Jugraj Singh doubled India’s advantage with a powerful drag flick in the 43rd minute, putting India in a commanding position.
However, Rintala pulled one back early in the fourth quarter before striking again late in the game to level the scores. India goalkeeper Mohith produced a series of fine saves, including a stunning double stop, to keep the match tied at the end of regulation.
In the shootout, both sides converted their first four attempts before Snowden’s crucial save sealed the contest for Australia.
India will next face Spain in their third match of the Hobart leg on Tuesday.
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