India Aims for Dominance Against Sri Lanka in Asian Games Hockey

As the Asian Games unfold, India's hockey team is looking to build on their impressive start with a commanding performance against Sri Lanka. After a remarkable 13-1 victory over Indonesia, the team aims to showcase their skills and address areas for improvement. Coach Craig Fulton is eager to test his players before facing tougher opponents like South Korea and Japan. With the goal of qualifying for the 2028 Olympics, this match is crucial for the team to regain confidence after a disappointing World Cup. Will India continue their winning streak? Read on to find out more about their journey in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 21, 2026, 12:48 IST

India's Ambitious Pursuit in Men's Hockey

With their campaign off to an impressive beginning, the defending champions India are set to seek another comprehensive victory against the lower-ranked Sri Lanka in their second Pool A match of the Asian Games men's hockey tournament on Tuesday.

India kicked off their journey with a staggering 13-1 victory over Indonesia on Sunday, and they are anticipated to secure another significant win against Sri Lanka.

In the match against Indonesia, India showcased their scoring prowess with eight different players finding the net, led by striker Dilpreet Singh, who netted four field goals.

A standout feature of India's performance was their ability to score 10 field goals during the match.

The Indian attack was formidable, with Dilpreet, Sukhjeet, veteran Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra, and Rajinder Singh collaborating effectively to create and convert scoring opportunities.

On set pieces, captain Harmanpreet Singh and Jugraj Singh took charge, and their performance will be crucial as the tournament progresses.

The upcoming match against Sri Lanka is expected to be straightforward for India, and chief coach Craig Fulton is eager to evaluate all his players before facing tougher opponents like South Korea and Japan.

However, a concern for Fulton is that India's defense was not significantly challenged against Indonesia, and a similar scenario is likely against Sri Lanka, which he is aware of as they prepare for Japan and South Korea.

In addition to the goal of directly qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the Asian Games present a vital chance for the Indian team to silence critics following a disappointing World Cup where they finished eighth.

Fulton expressed satisfaction with the team's start in the Asian Games but acknowledged the need for improvement moving forward.

"I’m pleased with the first game; the boys performed well across the four quarters. It wasn’t an easy match. We had some strong phases, but there’s definitely room for improvement, which we will focus on in the game against Sri Lanka," the South African coach remarked after the win over Indonesia.

"I’m happy with the three points and a good start, but we must address areas needing enhancement." India's real challenges will commence after the Sri Lanka match, with South Korea (September 24) and hosts Japan (September 26) on the horizon, and the Harmanpreet Singh-led squad aims to refine their strategy before these critical encounters.