India made a spectacular start to their AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026 title defence, thrashing Indonesia 14-0 in their Pool A opener in Moqi, China, on September 5.
The five time champions dominated from the opening quarter and never allowed Indonesia to settle. India led 6-0 at half-time before adding eight more goals after the break.
Prabhdeep Singh Leads the Charge
Forward Prabhdeep Singh was the star of the show, scoring five goals to help India produce one of their biggest victories of the tournament.
Captain Anmol Ekka also played a major role, finding the net four times, while Ajeet Yadav completed a hat-trick. Together, the three players scored 12 of India’s 14 goals.
India’s scoring was not limited to field goals. The team converted four penalty corners and also scored from a penalty stroke, showing their effectiveness from set pieces.
A Strong Start to the Title Defence
The result gives India an ideal beginning to their campaign as they attempt to retain the Junior Asia Cup crown.
However, the biggest tests are still ahead. India will face Japan on September 6, followed by tougher Pool A matches against South Korea and Chinese Taipei.
Those matches will provide a clearer picture of whether this young Indian side can repeat its title-winning campaign.
Young Stars Make Their Mark
The performances of Prabhdeep, Ekka and Yadav will be particularly encouraging for Indian hockey.
The Junior Asia Cup is an important platform for young players hoping to progress toward senior international hockey. A strong tournament could therefore become an important step in their careers.
India’s 14-0 victory cannot decide the tournament, but it has certainly sent an early warning to the rest of the field.
The defending champions have arrived with plenty of attacking firepower and the next challenge against Japan will show how that firepower holds up against stronger opposition.
