The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has been a hallmark of international hockey since 1983, attracting top teams from across the globe.
From thrilling finals to record-breaking performances, the tournament has consistently delivered excitement for fans and players alike.
This Sultan Azlan Shah Cup winners list provides a comprehensive year-by-year guide to every champion, highlighting the teams that have made history in this prestigious competition.
Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Winners and Runner-Ups
The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, named after the legendary Sultan Azlan Shah of Malaysia, is one of the most prestigious invitational hockey tournaments in the world.
Established in 1983 to honor Sultan Azlan Shah’s passion for field hockey, the tournament has grown into a global event, attracting top teams from across continents.
This guide to Sultan Azlan Shah Cup winners and runner-ups not only lists every champion but also captures the stories of intense finals, unforgettable upsets, and historic performances that have shaped the tournament’s rich legacy.
| Year | Winner | Runner-up |
| 1983 | Australia | Pakistan |
| 1985 | India | Malaysia |
| 1987 | West Germany | Pakistan |
| 1991 | India | Pakistan |
| 1994 | England | Pakistan |
| 1995 | India | Germany |
| 1996 | Australia | Germany |
| 1998 | Pakistan | South Korea |
| 1999 | South Korea | Australia |
| 2000 | Pakistan | South Korea |
| 2001 | Germany | South Korea |
| 2003 | Pakistan | Germany |
| 2004 | Australia | Pakistan) |
| 2005 | Australia | South Korea |
| 2006 | Netherlands | Australia |
| 2007 | Australia | Malaysia |
| 2008 | Argentina | India |
| 2009 | India | Malaysia |
| 2010 | India & South Korea (joint) | – (final was abandoned) |
| 2011 | Australia | Pakistan |
| 2012 | New Zealand | Argentina |
| 2013 | Australia | Malaysia |
| 2014 | Australia | Malaysia |
| 2015 | New Zealand | Australia |
| 2016 | Australia | India |
| 2017 | Great Britain | Australia |
| 2018 | Australia | Malaysia (or runners-up not clearly mentioned in some sources) |
| 2019 | South Korea | (runner-up not clearly listed in all sources) |
| 2022 | Malaysia | (runner-up data incomplete in summary) |
| 2024 | Japan | Pakistan |
Australia (10 Time Winner) – Most Successful Team in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup History
| Year | Australia — Winner | Runner‑Up / Final Opponent |
| 1983 | Australia | Pakistan |
| 1998 | Australia | Pakistan |
| 2004 | Australia | Pakistan |
| 2005 | Australia | South Korea |
| 2007 | Australia | Malaysia |
| 2011 | Australia | Pakistan |
| 2013 | Australia | Malaysia |
| 2014 | Australia | Malaysia |
| 2016 | Australia | India |
| 2018 | Australia | England |
Australia’s record in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is a testament to their skill, consistency, and dominance on the field. Winning the trophy 10 times across multiple decades, the Kookaburras have repeatedly bested top teams in high-pressure finals.
Their victories over Pakistan, South Korea, India, and Malaysia have not only added to their trophy cabinet but have also inspired a generation of players, setting the gold standard for international field hockey.
India (5-Time Winner)
| Year | Winner | Runner-Up |
| 1985 | India | Malaysia |
| 1991 | India | Pakistan |
| 1995 | India | Germany |
| 2009 | India | Malaysia |
| 2010 | India & South Korea (Joint) | – |
With five titles to their name, India stands as one of the most successful teams in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup history.
From their first win in 1985 to the joint triumph with South Korea in 2010, the team has delivered unforgettable matches and showcased world-class talent.
India’s mix of experienced leaders and emerging stars has made them a tough opponent, and their performances continue to inspire young hockey players across Asia.
Pakistan (3-Time Winner)
| Year | Winner | Runner-Up |
| 1994 | Pakistan | England |
| 1998 | Pakistan | South Korea |
| 2003 | Pakistan | Germany |
Pakistan has long been a powerhouse in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, clinching the trophy three times and often reaching the final stages of the tournament.
Known for their precise stick work, quick counterattacks, and attacking brilliance, Pakistan has delivered thrilling matches against top teams like England, South Korea, and Germany.
Legendary players such as Shahbaz Ahmed and Sohail Abbas have played key roles in these victories, making Pakistan a formidable force in the tournament’s history.
South Korea (3-Time Winner)
| Year | Winner | Runner-Up |
| 1996 | South Korea | Germany |
| 1999 | South Korea | Australia |
| 2019 | South Korea | (Runner-Up not clearly documented) |
South Korea has been a consistent and competitive team in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, winning the tournament three times and frequently challenging top hockey nations in the finals.
Known for their speed, disciplined structure, and tactical play, South Korea has delivered some of the tournament’s most thrilling matches.
Germany (2 Time Winner)
| Year | Winner | Runner-Up |
| 1987 | West Germany | Pakistan |
| 2001 | Germany | South Korea |
Germany, including West Germany before reunification, has been a strong and competitive presence in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, winning the tournament two times.
Known for their tactical discipline, physical fitness, and strategic gameplay, Germany has consistently posed a challenge to top Asian and Oceania teams.
Great Britain / England (2 Time Winner)
| Year | Winner | Runner-Up |
| 1994 | England | Pakistan |
| 2017 | Great Britain | Australia |
Great Britain and England have made notable contributions to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, each claiming the title once and consistently challenging top Asian and Oceania teams.
Known for their structured play, tactical awareness, and disciplined defense, they have added a European dimension to the tournament’s competitive spirit.
New Zealand (2 Time Winner)
| Year | Winner | Runner-Up |
| 2012 | New Zealand | Argentina |
| 2015 | New Zealand | Australia |
New Zealand has proven to be a competitive force in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, claiming the trophy twice and consistently reaching the later stages of the tournament. Their wins in 2012 and 2015, over Argentina and Australia respectively, showcased the team’s speed, tactical intelligence, and resilience. Players like Simon Child and Phil Burrows played key roles, making New Zealand one of the most respected teams in the competition.
Argentina (1 Time Winner)
Argentina has steadily made its presence felt in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, winning the trophy once and consistently challenging top teams. Their maiden victory in 2012 against New Zealand highlighted their attacking flair, tactical intelligence, and ability to perform under pressure. With players like Gonzalo Peillat and Lucas Vila leading the charge, Argentina has established itself as a respected contender in international hockey.
Japan (1 Time Winner)
Japan made history in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup by winning their first title in 2024, showcasing rapid improvement and tactical intelligence. Known for their disciplined defense and fast-paced attacking play, the team overcame strong opponents to claim the championship. Standout players like Ryoma Ooka and Shota Yamada were instrumental in Japan’s success, demonstrating skill, strategy, and composure under pressure.
Netherlands (1 Time Winner)
The Netherlands’ victory in 2012 marked a milestone in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, showcasing their tactical discipline and skillful execution. Known for disciplined defense and strategic attacks, the Dutch team excelled against Pakistan in a closely contested final. Legendary players like Robert van der Horst and Teun de Nooijer played pivotal roles, making the Netherlands a respected and competitive force in the tournament.
Final Words
From its inception in 1983, the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has witnessed historic victories, legendary performances, and exciting finals.
The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup winners list not only highlights the dominance of teams like Australia and India but also celebrates the growing influence of nations such as Japan, New Zealand, and the Netherlands.
This tournament continues to inspire players and fans alike, making it one of the most prestigious events in international hockey.
FAQs
1. What is the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup?
The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is an annual international men’s field hockey tournament held in Malaysia since 1983. It is named after Sultan Azlan Shah, the ninth Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, who was a strong advocate for field hockey. The tournament attracts top teams from Asia, Europe, and Oceania.
2. Which team has won the most Sultan Azlan Shah Cup titles?
Australia holds the record for the most championships, having won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 10 times. Their dominance is reflected in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup winners list, followed closely by India, Pakistan, and South Korea.
3. How many times has India won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup?
India has won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup five times, showcasing consistent performances and strong competition against top international teams.
4. Has Japan ever won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup?
Yes, Japan claimed their first-ever Sultan Azlan Shah Cup title in 2024, marking a historic milestone for the team and reflecting the growing competitiveness of Asian hockey.
