The Indian junior men’s hockey team maintained their perfect start at the Sultan of Johor Cup with a 4-2 win over New Zealand on Sunday, consolidating their position as one of the tournament favourites.

Arshdeep Singh (2nd minute), PB Sunil (15th), Araijeet Singh Hundal (26th) and Roman Kumur (47th) scored for India, while Gus Nelson (41st) and Aidan Max (52nd) replied for New Zealand. India had opened their campaign with a narrow 3-2 victory over Great Britain.

The Sultan of Johor Cup, held annually in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, is a key platform for junior teams worldwide to showcase emerging talent and serves as a stepping stone to senior international hockey. India has historically been competitive in the tournament, finishing runners-up on multiple occasions and clinching the title in 2013 and 2017.

Arshdeep’s early strike came from a loose ball after poor defending by New Zealand in the circle.

Sunil doubled the lead in the final minute of the first quarter, converting a penalty corner variation after captain Rohit’s precise pass. This was India’s fourth attempt after earlier efforts were blocked by New Zealand’s first rusher.

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Araijeet, unmarked in the circle, added a third for India in the second quarter with a quick turnaround finish, extending the lead and keeping New Zealand on the back foot.

Nelson’s strike in the 41st minute reduced the deficit to 3-1, but Roman Kumur restored India’s four-goal cushion in the 47th minute via a penalty corner. Max scored again in the 52nd minute to make it 4-2, adding late drama, but India’s defence remained resolute.

India’s junior team, led by captain Rohit, has been in excellent form, blending attacking flair with disciplined defence. The team’s early momentum in Johor underscores India’s ambitions of reclaiming the tournament title and providing international exposure to emerging talent.

India will next face Pakistan on Tuesday, aiming to keep their unbeaten run intact and strengthen their bid for the trophy.