India's U-18 Men's Hockey Team Triumphs at Asia Cup 2026

The Indian U-18 Men's Hockey Team triumphed at the Asia Cup 2026, defeating Japan 4-1 in the final. Ashish Tani Purti's hat-trick and Ketan Kushwaha's goal secured the victory. The team received accolades and cash awards for their remarkable performance, with Ashish being named Player of the Match and the tournament's top scorer. This victory highlights India's dominance in youth hockey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 20:25 IST

India Clinches U-18 Asia Cup Title

On Saturday, June 6, the Indian U-18 Men's Hockey Team showcased an impressive performance, securing the Men's U-18 Asia Cup 2026 title by defeating the host nation, Japan, with a score of 4-1 in Kakamigahara. Ashish Tani Purti was the star of the match, netting a hat-trick with goals at the 2nd, 28th, and 34th minutes, while captain Ketan Kushwaha added another goal at the 30th minute. Japan's Numada Gaku managed to score a consolation goal in the 52nd minute.

India started the final match with high energy, quickly applying pressure and earning the first penalty corner within the first 90 seconds. Ashish capitalized on this opportunity, giving India an early lead. Japan, trailing behind, attempted to regroup and tested the Indian defense with several attacks, but the Indian team held firm, maintaining their 1-0 advantage.

In the second quarter, despite Japan's efforts to find an equalizer, India extended their lead. After Japan earned their first penalty corner, India countered effectively, resulting in another penalty corner in the 28th minute. Ashish, demonstrating his prowess as a penalty corner specialist, scored again, making it 2-0. The momentum shifted further in India's favor when Prahalad Rajbhar assisted captain Ketan Kushwaha, who scored to bring the halftime score to 3-0.

India continued to dominate in the third quarter. A brilliant run by Varinder Singh led to another penalty corner, and Ashish completed his hat-trick with a precise shot in the 34th minute, increasing the lead to 4-0. Japan fought back in the final quarter, and Numada Gaku converted a penalty stroke in the 52nd minute, reducing the score to 4-1. However, this goal was merely a consolation as India’s defense remained resolute, thwarting Japan's attempts to close the gap.

Ashish's outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match title, and he finished the tournament as the top scorer with 13 goals. Additionally, goalkeeper Ayush Rajak was recognized as the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament. In the women's category, Nausheen Naz emerged as the top scorer with 12 goals, marking a successful campaign for India.

In recognition of their achievements, Hockey India announced cash awards of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for support staff members. The bronze medal-winning Indian Women's U18 team will receive Rs 1 lakh each, with Rs 50,000 for their support staff.