DNA India praises Akshay Kumar, Mouni Roy, the supporting cast and hockey sequences, though the pace drops in places and some of the messaging feels forced.

Hindustan Times finds the film engrossing and well performed, praising Akshay Kumar and Mouni Roy while noting that some scenes become overly emotional.

Koimoi praises Akshay Kumar, the period setting and an excellent climax, finding the film entertaining despite some slower portions in the second half.

BollywoodLife calls the film an ideal Independence Day watch, praising its patriotic spirit and emotional payoff despite some familiar ideas and a sense of déjà vu.

Bollywood Hungama calls the film a brilliant and touching sports drama, praising its screenplay, performances, patriotic emotion and crowd pleasing finale.

News18 finds the film an emotional and rousing Independence Day entertainer, praising Akshay Kumar and the ensemble for keeping the patriotic sports story engaging.

Filmibeat calls the film inspiring and engaging, praising its performances and message while noting weak visual effects and a screenplay that could have been tighter.

Times of India praises the performances and emotional sports drama, saying a slow first half eventually gives way to an exciting and satisfying climax.

India TV News appreciates the patriotic story and its dream of sporting glory for independent India, but finds the overall execution less powerful than the idea itself.

India Today praises Akshay Kumar, Mouni Roy and Reema Kagti's storytelling, finding the film engaging and emotional despite losing some momentum in the second half.