India's Junior Hockey Team Clinches Bronze with Remarkable Comeback

Historic Bronze Medal Win for India's Junior Hockey Team

New Delhi, Dec 16: Rohit, the captain and defender of the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team, shared insights on the squad's determination and resilience following their impressive bronze medal victory at the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup held in Tamil Nadu 2025. The team achieved a thrilling 4-2 comeback against Argentina in the third-place playoff.

After finishing fourth in the last two editions of the Junior World Cup, India made a triumphant return to the podium with a dramatic performance, showcasing one of the tournament's most unforgettable comebacks.

Trailing 0-2 at the end of the third quarter, the young team displayed an extraordinary attacking effort in the final quarter, scoring four consecutive goals to secure the bronze medal and conclude a remarkable tournament.

Rohit expressed the significance of this victory, stating, “This bronze medal holds immense value for every player. After two fourth-place finishes, we were determined to reclaim our spot on the podium. Our comeback from 0-2 down reflects our belief, mental fortitude, and trust in one another.”

Reflecting on the match against Argentina, the 21-year-old defender noted, "At the end of the third quarter, we reminded ourselves to remain composed and play our game. The coaching staff emphasized that one goal could shift the momentum, and once we scored, everyone elevated their performance. Scoring four goals in the last quarter against a formidable opponent like Argentina is a source of pride for us.”

India had a strong tournament run, winning all their pool matches and narrowly defeating Belgium in a tense quarterfinal shootout to reach the semifinals. Their only loss came against Germany in the semifinals, but the team rebounded strongly to finish on a high note.

Rohit highlighted the team's overall performance, stating, “We played exceptional hockey throughout the tournament. Winning all our pool matches and overcoming Belgium in the shootout demonstrated our composure under pressure. Although the semifinal loss was challenging, the boys showed remarkable maturity to regroup and secure a medal.”

As a specialist dragflicker, Rohit is set to participate in the upcoming Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2025–26, having been retained by the SG Pipers ahead of this year’s auctions.

Discussing the significance of the Hero HIL and his connection with the SG Pipers, Rohit remarked, “The Hero Hockey India League is an excellent platform for young Indian players. Competing in high-intensity matches alongside and against some of the world's best players enhances our understanding of top-level hockey.”

He added, “The Hero HIL has been vital in refining my dragflicking, decision-making, and game awareness. Training with seasoned international defenders and penalty-corner specialists challenges me to elevate my performance daily. Being retained by SG Pipers inspires me to consistently contribute to the team.”

Rohit emphasized the league's role in bridging the gap between junior and senior international hockey, stating, “The HIL prepares young players for senior international hockey by exposing us to high-pressure situations, packed stadiums, and diverse playing styles. It fosters our growth as players and mentally, and I look forward to applying the lessons learned from the Junior World Cup in the upcoming Hero Hockey India League season.”