ENGLAND MEN FINISH SECOND IN HOCKEY PRO LEAGUE AFTER PENALTY LOSS TO INDIA

England's men's hockey team concluded their FIH Pro League campaign as runners-up following a penalty shootout defeat by India in their final fixture. The match at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London ended goalless after regulation time. In the subsequent shootout, only David Goodfield and captain Zachary Jones converted their attempts for England, with India winning 3-2. England accumulated 35 points across the season, finishing four points behind champions Belgium.

The result came after England's previous fixture against India on Thursday, which England won on penalties following a 2-2 draw. England then recorded a 7-0 victory over relegated Pakistan on Saturday. Zak Jones' squad will next compete in the World Cup, scheduled for 15-30 August across the Netherlands and Belgium, where they face India, Pakistan and Wales in Pool D.

Belgium clinched the Pro League title with one match remaining, becoming the first side to qualify for the men's hockey tournament at the 2028 Olympics alongside hosts the United States. The Pro League winners in both the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons will secure Olympic spots for Los Angeles. In the women's division, England secured their top-flight status with consecutive victories against Spain, finishing seventh of nine teams with 16 points, whilst Ireland were relegated after accumulating 10 points.