Assured of an Olympic berth, Indian men began their Hockey World League semi-finals campaign with a 3-2 victory over France in a hard fought game.
France, who are currently ranked 18th in world rankings, shocked India when Olivier Sanhez struck in the third minute of the game, giving them the lead.
However, India fought back well to score two goals in two minutes to take a lead into halftime. Manpreet Singh converted a penalty corner while Devindar Walmiki intercepted a Dharamvir pass to find the back of the net.
France showed a spirited performance throughout the game and they were rewarded when Simon Marin scored the second goal in the third quarter.
It required Sardar Singh's brilliance in the fourth quarter two minutes before the close of play that eventually resulted in the difference between the two teams.
India will take on Poland in their next fixture on June 23.
