India beat Wales 3-1 in Hockey World Cup opener
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India began their FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3-1 win over Wales in their opening Pool D match in Amstelveen, Netherlands, on Saturday.
India took control early, scoring twice in the first quarter through penalty corners. Sanjay Rana opened the scoring before captain Harmanpreet Singh doubled the lead with his trademark drag-flick.
Harmanpreet struck again in the third quarter to put India 3-0 ahead. Wales managed to pull one goal back in the fourth quarter after a goalmouth scramble, with a video review confirming that the ball had crossed the line.
India's defence otherwise kept Wales under pressure throughout the match. Goalkeeper Mohith HS also produced a crucial save from Wales star Gareth Furlong's powerful penalty-corner drag-flick in the final quarter.
India won five penalty corners during the match and converted three of them into goals.
The match also marked the debut of India's new saffron jersey. The change from the team's traditional blue kit had sparked debate, with former captain Viren Rasquinha questioning the decision. Vice-captain Hardik Singh said the switch was a team decision because the previous blue kit could clash with the blue playing surface.
India next face England on August 17 before taking on Pakistan on August 19 in their remaining Pool D matches. England are ranked five places above India in the FIH rankings.
India had never lost to Wales in their previous five international meetings, winning four and drawing one before Saturday's match.