Ipoh, Malaysia – India secured a thrilling 3-2 victory against New Zealand in a closely contested match at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Selvam Karthi's decisive goal in the final quarter sealed the win for the five-time champions, propelling them to the top of the tournament standings.

The match saw an early breakthrough for India when Amit Rohidas converted a penalty corner in the 4th minute with a powerful drag-flick. India maintained their lead, denying New Zealand's attempts to equalize, and concluded the first quarter with a 1-0 advantage.

India started the second half strong, with captain Sanjay converting another penalty corner in the 32nd minute, extending their lead to 2-0. New Zealand, however, mounted a comeback, with George Baker scoring in the 42nd minute to reduce the deficit. Baker struck again in the 48th minute from a penalty corner, leveling the score at 2-2 and putting pressure on the Indian side.

In the final minutes, Selvam Karthi capitalized on a brilliant pass from Dilpreet to score a field goal, securing India's lead at 3-2. India managed to hold on, thwarting New Zealand's late attempts to equalize.

India's coach expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, acknowledging New Zealand's resilience and praising his players for their determination. He highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and capitalizing on opportunities in crucial moments of the game. New Zealand's coach, while disappointed with the result, commended his team's fighting spirit and acknowledged India's clinical finishing. He emphasized the need to learn from the match and improve their consistency throughout the tournament.

With this win, India sits at the top of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup table. India will face Canada on Saturday, November 29, 2025.