Rajgir: India made a flying start to their Hero Asia Cup 2025 campaign on Friday, defeating China 4-3 in a nail-biting contest at Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar.
The hosts, cheered on by thousands of schoolchildren and local fans, held their nerve in the final quarter after the match was locked 3-3. Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored a hat-trick, while Jugraj Singh added another goal to seal the win. China responded through Gao Jisong, Chen Benhai and Du Siho, but fell just short.
Earlier in the day, Malaysia beat Bangladesh 4-1, South Korea demolished Chinese Taipei 7-0 and Japan thrashed Kazakhstan 7-0. The victories for Malaysia, South Korea, Japan and India ensured a high-scoring opening to the continental tournament.
The Asia Cup carries added significance this year, with the winner earning direct qualification for the 2026 Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. Eight teams are competing, with Bangladesh and Kazakhstan drafted in after Pakistan and Oman withdrew.
The opening ceremony was attended by Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, who declared the event a “historic moment” for the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended congratulations, hailing the tournament as a milestone in India’s sporting journey.
