India survived a late scare to edge past New Zealand 3-2 in a thrilling encounter at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 on Thursday, strengthening their position at the top of the points table and taking a major step toward reaching the final.
India struck early when Amit Rohidas converted a penalty corner to make it 1-0. Captain Sanjay doubled the lead shortly after halftime, maintaining India’s perfect penalty-corner conversion record on the day. But New Zealand clawed their way back into the contest, with George Baker first netting a field goal and then smashing home a penalty corner to level the match 2-2, putting the Indians under heavy pressure.
With seven minutes left on the clock, Karthi Selvam produced a moment of brilliance, calmly finishing a field goal after a superb assist from Dilpreet Singh to restore India’s lead. The defending champions held firm in the closing stages to seal a crucial 3-2 victory.
The win takes India to 9 points from four matches, placing them at the top of the standings and keeping them well-positioned for a spot in the final. Craig Fulton’s side now have one game in hand against Canada.
India have so far registered victories against Korea, Malaysia, and New Zealand, while their only defeat came against Belgium earlier in the tournament.
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