India Secures Victory Against Australia in FIH Men's Pro League Shootout

India's Strong Finish in Hobart

In a thrilling conclusion to their Hobart leg of the FIH Men's Pro League 2025-26, India managed to secure a 3-1 victory over Australia in a shootout after a tense 1-1 draw in regulation time. Shilanand Lakra scored for India in the 51st minute, while Australia's Captain Jeremy Hayward netted the equalizer just two minutes earlier.

During the shootout, Shilanand Lakra, Maninder Singh, and Vishnukant Singh successfully converted their attempts, while India's goalkeeper, Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar, made crucial saves to ensure the win.

A Hard-Fought Match

The match kicked off with both teams displaying strong defensive strategies. Although Australia dominated possession, India countered effectively. Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar made several key saves early on, keeping the score level. India earned their first penalty corner in the 11th minute, but Amandeep Lakra's dragflick was thwarted by the Australian defense. Shortly after, Abhishek's attempt from the left side narrowly missed the target.

The second quarter saw no goals, with both teams unable to capitalize on their chances. In the 16th minute, Abhishek's setup for Manmeet Singh was saved by the Australian keeper. Australia then received a penalty corner in the 25th minute, but Suraj Karkera's brilliant save kept the game scoreless.

Tension Builds in the Final Stages

India had another penalty corner in the 38th minute, but Araijeet Singh Hundal's shot was easily saved. Just moments later, a close attempt by the young forward went just wide. Australia pressed hard, earning back-to-back penalty corners in the 42nd and 45th minutes. Joel Rintala's dragflick hit the post, and Mohith made another crucial save to maintain the stalemate.

The final quarter saw Australia break the deadlock with a penalty corner goal from Captain Jeremy Hayward in the 49th minute. However, India quickly responded, with Hardik Singh's assist leading to Shilanand Lakra's equalizer in the 51st minute, bringing the score to 1-1.

Victory in the Shootout

With the match tied, it proceeded to a shootout where India triumphed 3-1. Shilanand Lakra, Maninder Singh, and Vishnukant Singh all converted their chances, while Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar's outstanding performance included three saves against Australia, securing the bonus point for India.