Heartbreak in Hobart for Indian hockey fans as their men’s team suffered a 4-5 penalty shootout loss to Australia in the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025-26. The Sunday clash at Tasmania Hockey Centre was a testament to both teams’ skill, ending 2-2 in regular play.
India seized initiative early. After withstanding Australia’s possession-heavy start, Amit Rohidas converted a penalty corner in the 15th minute with a clinical drag flick, putting India 1-0 up.
Australia probed relentlessly, but India’s defense, anchored by Mohit’s stellar goalkeeping, held firm through the second quarter. The breakthrough for India came via Jugraj Singh’s 43rd-minute penalty corner goal, doubling the lead and boosting morale.
The fourth quarter turned the tide. Joel Rintala’s 47th-minute strike narrowed the gap, and his 56th-minute equalizer forced extra drama. Yashdeep Siwach’s heroic block on the line epitomized India’s grit amid mounting pressure.
Australia’s late assaults were repelled by Mohit’s brilliance, including a double save that echoed through the stadium. In the shootout, conversions flowed until the fifth round, where J. Snowden’s stop on Aditya Arjun Lalage clinched it for the Kookaburras.
Though defeated, India displayed championship quality. Captain Rohidas praised the team’s spirit post-match. Next up: a Tuesday duel with Spain to reclaim momentum in the league standings.