Odisha Crowned Champions at 16th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship 2026

Odisha scripted history by clinching the 16th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship 2026 (Division A) title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Madhya Pradesh in the final at Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

The match began with Odisha’s Mandeep Kerketta scoring in the 2nd minute, setting the tone for an intense battle.

Madhya Pradesh fought back as Sohil Ali equalised in the 37th minute, but Odisha’s captain Deepak Pradhan struck in the 45th minute, sealing the decisive lead.

Despite late pressure, Odisha’s defence held firm to secure the championship.

In the bronze medal clash, Punjab outclassed Jharkhand 6-3.

Punjab’s scorers included Gurwinder Singh, Jarman Singh (2), Charanjeet Singh (2), and Ajaypal Singh, while Jharkhand’s Patras Hassa netted a hat-trick in a spirited performance.

Odisha’s triumph highlights their rising dominance in junior hockey, while Punjab’s attacking flair ensured a podium finish.