Sultan of Johor Cup 2024: India vs New Zealand preview, predicted lineups, match prediction, and live streaming details
India's Colts displayed exceptional poise to secure a 3-3 draw against New Zealand in their final round-robin match at the Sultan of Johor Cup 2024. However, a draw meant that they eventually finished third on the points table. India’s third-place finish means they will face New Zealand again in the battle for the third spot on Saturday, October 26.
India started strong, with Gurjot scoring in the 6th minute. His first attempt, assisted by Sukhvinder, was blocked by the goalkeeper, but he skillfully lifted his second shot to the top of the net, giving India an early 1-0 advantage.
In the 8th minute, India had an opportunity to increase its lead, securing two consecutive penalty corners (PCs), but the New Zealand goalkeeper produced impressive saves. Soon after, New Zealand’s attacking pressure led them into India’s striking circle, though Rosan Kujur defended well, preventing a goal.
New Zealand eventually broke through in the 17th minute as Elmes struck a field goal to equalize. India swiftly countered, with Rohit scoring from a PC to reclaim the lead at 2-1. Both teams maintained a fast pace, and although India earned several PCs in the second quarter, they could not convert.
New Zealand’s comeback continued in the third quarter when Elmes scored again, this time through a well-executed PC. His powerful drag-flick proved challenging for India’s defense, and he completed his hat-trick in the 45th minute, pushing New Zealand to a 3-2 lead.
India's difficulties with PC conversions continued into the fourth quarter, with another missed opportunity in the 46th minute. New Zealand responded with strong counterattacks, but India’s defense held firm. With just 90 seconds left, India earned a crucial PC, successfully executing a clever variation that allowed Priyobarta to score, sealing a dramatic 3-3 draw.
In the final standings of the Sultan of Johor Cup 2024 (after the round-robin stage), New Zealand ended fourth with nine points. India, Australia, and Great Britain were tied on 10 points each. However, Australia topped the table with a superior goal difference, followed by Great Britain in second place.
India vs New Zealand Sultan of Johor Cup 2024 Match Details
Match Details: India vs New Zealand, Sultan of Johor Cup 2024, 3rd vs 4th place
Date and Time: Saturday, October 26, 6:05 pm IST
Venue: Taman Daya Hockey Stadium, Johor, Malaysia
India vs New Zealand Squads
India
Tiwari Sharda Nand, Talem Priyobarta, Ali Amir (C), Singh Gurjot, Singh Manmeet, Dad Konain Mohd, Kushwaha Sourabh Anand, Yadav Chandan, Pal Ankit, Kujur Rosan, Singh Dilraj, Rohit, Ekka Anmol, Singh Arshdeep, Sukhvinder, Toppo Mukesh, Khan Ali (GK), and Singh Bikramjit (GK).
New Zealand
Ryan Parr, Dean Clarkson, Matthew Wilson, Owen Brown, Tim Crawford, Javahn Jones, Milan Patel, Luka Clark, Daniel Torr, Benjamin Culhane (C), Sam Lints, Bradley Rothwell, Jordan Whittleston, Hayden Ganley (GK), Jonty Elmes, Aiden Bax, Gus Nelson, and Matthew Ruetsch (GK).
India vs New Zealand Predicted Lineups
India
Tiwari Sharda Nand, Talem Priyobarta, Ali Amir (C), Manmeet Singh, Dad Konain Mohd, Chandan Yadav, Gurjot Singh, Rohit, Arshdeep Singh, Toppo Mukesh, Ali Khan (GK).
New Zealand
Dean Clarkson, Owen Brown, Milan Patel, Luka Clark, Benjamin Culhane (C), Jonty Elmes, Sam Lints, Aiden Bax, Matthew Wilson, Tim Crawford, Matthew Ruestch (GK).
India vs New Zealand Prediction
Despite missing out on the final, India have put up a consistent display at the Sultan of Johor Cup 2024 so far with three wins, a draw, and a loss. New Zealand, on the other hand, managed only two wins.
Both teams played well in a draw in their previous meeting and will be fresh from the same heading into this contest. It is expected to be another close encounter between the two sides, but India will be expected to come out on top this time around.
Prediction: India to win.
India vs New Zealand Live Telecast Details, Channel List & Live Score Details
TV: N/A
Live Streaming: rtmklik.rtm.gov.my website