Uttar Pradesh Hockey Seizes Gold at 16th Sub Junior Men's National Championship
Synopsis
In an exciting final, Uttar Pradesh Hockey defeated Madhya Pradesh 5-2 to win the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Men National Championship 2026. Punjab also shone, claiming bronze by overcoming Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu in the third-place match.
Key Takeaways
Uttar Pradesh Hockey clinched the championship title by defeating Madhya Pradesh 5-2.
Hockey Punjab won the bronze medal in a tight match against Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu.
Uttar Pradesh showcased a dominant performance throughout the tournament.
Ali Shahrukh emerged as the leading scorer for Uttar Pradesh Hockey.
The final was held in Rajgir, Bihar.
Rajgir, April 12 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh Hockey has claimed victory in the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Men National Championship 2026 held in Rajgir, Bihar, by defeating Hockey Madhya Pradesh in the Division ‘A’ Final.
In a parallel match, Hockey Punjab achieved the Bronze medal by triumphing over Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Hockey in the 34th place clash.
The final showdown showcased a strong performance from Uttar Pradesh Hockey, who won decisively with a score of 5–2 against Hockey Madhya Pradesh. The scoring commenced quickly when captain Ketan Kushwaha (4’) netted the first goal via a field shot.
Responding promptly, Gazee Khan (8’) of Hockey Madhya Pradesh leveled the score. However, Uttar Pradesh regained the lead shortly after with Nitish Yadav (13’) converting a penalty corner, followed by a field goal from Ali Shahrukh (28’). Rajbhar Prahlad (35’) and Chauhan Raghvendra Singh (40’) further padded the score, placing Uttar Pradesh firmly in control of the match.
Ayush Singh Lodhi (43’) managed to score for Hockey Madhya Pradesh, but it was merely a consolation as Uttar Pradesh secured a convincing 5–2 victory.
The championship title was indicative of Uttar Pradesh Hockey's formidable performance throughout the tournament.
They kicked off their campaign with an overwhelming 17–1 victory against Manipur Hockey, followed by a 4–0 win over Hockey Arunachal in the pool round, and a 6–3 win against Hockey Odisha in the quarter-finals.
In the semi-final, Uttar Pradesh Hockey triumphed over Hockey Punjab with a score of 6–2, showcasing their prowess once again in the final to lift the trophy.
Ali Shahrukh emerged as their top scorer, playing a pivotal role in their successful journey.
Earlier that day, Hockey Punjab secured victory against Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Hockey with a narrow 1–0 scoreline in the 34th place match. The only goal of the match was scored early by Rajveer Singh (8’), which provided Punjab with the necessary edge.
Despite a determined effort from Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Hockey, Punjab held on to clinch a hard-fought win and conclude their tournament on the podium.
Point of View
It is essential to note that Uttar Pradesh Hockey's victory reflects their consistent excellence and preparation throughout the tournament. Their performance, marked by skill and strategy, sets a benchmark for future competitions. Meanwhile, Hockey Punjab's determination for the bronze medal also highlights the competitive spirit present in the championship.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Men National Championship?
Uttar Pradesh Hockey won the championship by defeating Hockey Madhya Pradesh 5-2.
What was the score in the bronze medal match?
Hockey Punjab secured the bronze medal with a 1-0 win against Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Hockey.
Who was the top scorer for Uttar Pradesh Hockey in the tournament?
Ali Shahrukh was the top scorer for Uttar Pradesh Hockey during the tournament.
Where was the championship held?
The championship took place in Rajgir, Bihar.
What was Uttar Pradesh Hockey's score in the semi-final?
Uttar Pradesh Hockey defeated Hockey Punjab 6-2 in the semi-final.
