India launched their FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Wales in their opening Pool D match in Amstelveen, Netherlands. Sanjay Rana and captain Harmanpreet Singh secured an early lead with two first-quarter penalty corner goals, while Harmanpreet added his second goal in the third quarter. Wales managed to score a late consolation goal in the final period.
The match marked the debut of India's new saffron jersey, a change that previously sparked controversy regarding the team's traditional blue identity. Vice-captain Hardik Singh defended the switch as a tactical team decision, explaining that the new color was chosen to avoid visual clashes with the blue AstroTurf surface.
Following this win, India prepares for two critical upcoming matches in Pool D. The team is scheduled to face England on August 17, followed by a high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals Pakistan on August 19.
