Defending champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers began their Hero Hockey India League 2025–26 campaign with a solid 3–1 win over JSW Soorma Hockey Club at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium.
After an evenly contested first half, the Tigers struck early in the third quarter when Sukhjeet Singh deflected in a penalty corner. Abhishek doubled the lead with a powerful reverse-stick finish before Prabhjot Singh pulled one back for Soorma. Gursewak Singh sealed the result with a late goal.
Despite strong resistance from goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch, the Tigers controlled the contest and started their title defence confidently, with Sukhjeet named Player of the Match.