India men's hockey defeats Germany, Netherlands in Pro League surge

India's men’s hockey team closed the 2025‑26 FIH Pro League with back‑to‑back wins over world champion Germany (3‑1) and Olympic‑gold‑medal holders the Netherlands (3‑2) in the European leg. Coach Craig Fulton said the victories demonstrate a “solid stepping stone” toward the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games, highlighting the squad’s growing confidence and ability to execute a balanced game plan.

After a mixed start in Rourkela and Hobart, where India suffered defeats and narrow draws, the side sharpened its defence – conceding only six goals across four matches in Europe and London – and expanded its attack beyond penalty‑corner specialists. Joint top‑scorers Dilpreet Singh and Jugraj Singh each netted four goals, with contributions from Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh and Nilakanta Sharma. The team also held England to draws and recorded a commanding 7‑1 win over Pakistan, underscoring its rising form ahead of major tournaments.