Senior Men's Nationals: Coach Rajinder, captain Hardik reflect on Punjab's title win

Punjab lifted the title in the Senior Men's National Championship 2025 as they defeated Madhya Pradesh 4-1 in the final in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE JHANSI, 16 APRIL

Jugraj Singh was in top form for Punjab, having finished the tournament as the second-highest goalscorer with five goals, and even recorded a crucial brace in the final. Young sensation Araijeet Singh Hundal also played a crucial role in the attack and claimed three goals to his name.

Punjab had previously won the tournament in 2023. However, in the last edition, they were knocked out in the quarterfinals by Maharashtra. This time, led by captain Hardik Singh and coach Rajinder Singh, Punjab have claimed the championship again.

Punjab finished second in Division 1, Pool A standings, three points behind Madhya Pradesh, who dealt them their only defeat in the tournament. In the quarterfinals, Hockey Punjab earned a 3-2 win over Haryana, followed by a 4-3 victory against Uttar Pradesh in the semifinals.

Despite their earlier loss, Punjab ensured they learned from their mistakes and defeated Hockey Madhya Pradesh comfortably in the final.