Lucknow: The 43rd All India K.D. Singh Babu Invitational Prize Money Men’s Hockey Tournament 2025 witnessed two electrifying semi-final clashes at the Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium, Lucknow, as hockey fans enjoyed a day of gripping action and top-class performances.
In the first semi-final, the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) secured a hard-fought victory over Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), New Delhi, defeating them 5–4 in a thrilling contest that kept spectators on edge till the very end.
From the very start, both teams displayed aggressive and fast-paced hockey. SSCB took the lead in the 5th minute, thanks to a well-executed strike by Shushk Dhanwar. However, CAG equalised in the 9th minute through Bharat Mahalingam Pakurti, setting up an intense back-and-forth battle.
The match remained neck-and-neck throughout, with both sides trading goals to keep the scoreboard level at 4–4 until the final minutes. The decisive moment came in the 60th minute, when SSCB earned a penalty stroke, which they successfully converted to seal their spot in the tournament final.
In the second semi-final, the Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB) delivered an outstanding performance to edge past the Indian Army (INA) with a 3–2 victory.
The first half remained goalless as both teams tested each other’s defenses. However, the second half turned into a goal-fest, with PSPB’s Armaan Qureshi, Rajinder Singh, and others displaying excellent teamwork and precision to score three goals. The Indian Army mounted a strong comeback with two goals of their own but fell just short as PSPB held firm to protect their lead.
With these results, the final match of the prestigious tournament will be played tomorrow, September 28, 2025, between Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) and Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB).
Fans are eagerly anticipating a blockbuster finale, as two of India’s strongest hockey sides go head-to-head for the K.D. Singh Babu Memorial Trophy 2025, continuing the legacy of one of India’s greatest hockey legends.
