Ipoh, Malaysia: India booked a place in the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup after a commanding 14-3 win over Canada in pool play, powered by a brilliant four-goal performance from drag-flicker Jugraj Singh.
In addition to Jugraj, Rajinder Singh, Abhishek, and Amit Rohidas scored two goals each, while Sanjay, Selvam Karthi, Dilpreet Singh, and Neelkant Sharma contributed one goal apiece. Canada’s goals came from Brendon Guralyuk, Matthew Sarmento, and Jyotswaroop Sidhu.
India struck early with Neelkant Sharma scoring in the fourth minute, followed by Rajinder Singh’s effort six minutes later. Canada pulled one back through Guralyuk, but Jugraj and Amit Rohidas quickly restored India’s lead. By halftime, India was 7-1 ahead, with key goals from Rajinder, Dilpreet, and Jugraj.
In the second half, Jugraj completed his hat-trick, and Selvam Karthi added another, taking India to 9-2. The fourth quarter saw Amit Rohidas and Jugraj extend the lead, while captain Sanjay and Abhishek sealed the victory at 14-3.
India will now face Belgium in the final, aiming to continue their dominant run in the prestigious tournament.
