Harmanpreet, right, proved his class yet again as India pocketed three points.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The Indian men’s team couldn’t have asked for a better start to the hockey World Cup after what has been a testing year. Under overcast skies here at the Wagener Stadion, a 3-1 scoreline against Wales in Pool-D on the back of a workmanlike display would have pleased head coach Craig Fulton, who places great emphasis on defensive solidity.
Three penalty corner (PC) conversions, two from the stick of skipper Harmanpreet Singh, ensured India capitalised on its dominance. On the country’s 80th Independence day, there was plenty to cheer for a moderate Indian contingent in the stands.
The experienced all-star core of this Indian team was complemented by several first-time World Cuppers. While the outfielders impressed, goalkeeper Suraj Karkera had to make an immediate impact in the third minute by rushing off his line to smother Jack Pritchard’s low effort.
India, sporting a new saffron jersey, grew into the contest with its midfielders manoeuvring cleverly into spaces to push the Welsh into their own half as the pressure translated into its first PC.
It didn’t matter that Harmanpreet, India’s short-corner ace, was off the pitch. Defender Sanjay Rana opened the scoring in the eighth minute when his drag-push benefitted from Sukhjeet Singh’s jump in front of the ball leaving Toby Reynolds-Cotterill second-guessing as the ball found its way between his legs.
Harmanpreet was back on and showed his class by doubling India’s advantage when he arrowed his drag-flick to the right corner.
India defended its two-goal lead with tenacious graft, with several players converging on the ball, denying the Welsh space to play forward. India’s forwards put in a shift, too.
Mandeep’s interception outside Wales’ circle, set up India’s seventh PC in the third quarter. Harmanpreet struck once again, leaving Reynolds-Cotterill sprawled out on his back.
Wales’ enterprising endeavour was rewarded with a goal in the final minutes when Sam Welsh lifted the ball over Mohith H.S. after a goalline scramble. It proved to be the only sour point for Fulton’s men.
The Indian women’s team will begin its campaign on Sunday against China in a Pool-D contest.
The result: India 3 (Sanjay Rana 8-pc, Harmanpreet Singh 11-pc, 43-pc) bt Wales 1 (Sam Welsh 56).
Published – August 15, 2026 08:20 pm IST
