Hockey India Unveils Men's Team for Australia Tour Ahead of Asia Cup

Men's Hockey Team Announced for Australia Tour

New Delhi, Aug 4: Hockey India has officially announced a 24-member men's squad for their upcoming four-match tour in Australia, set to take place from August 15 to 21 in Perth. This tour serves as a crucial preparatory phase leading up to the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, commencing on August 29, which is vital for World Cup qualification.

The team, captained by renowned dragflicker and defender Harmanpreet Singh, is scheduled to depart for Australia on August 8 from Bengaluru, where they are currently undergoing training at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) facility.

The squad includes goalkeepers Krishan Pathak and Suraj Karkera. Alongside Harmanpreet, the defensive lineup features Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Amit Rohidas, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Jugraj Singh, and newcomer Poovanna CB from Karnataka.

In the midfield, the talented Rajinder Singh, often compared to former captain Sardar Singh, joins Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, and Vishnu Kant Singh. The forward line comprises Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Selvam Karthi, and Aditya Lalage.

Chief coach Craig Fulton emphasized the importance of this tour in preparation for the Asia Cup, stating, "We are heading to Perth to enhance our physical conditioning and technical skills through quality training and practice matches." He also highlighted the opportunity to evaluate younger players in the squad, saying, "We have included some younger athletes to provide them with essential exposure and test combinations under pressure. This camp is crucial for our preparation and a chance to build both individual and team momentum before competing at home."

Goalkeepers: Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera

Defenders: Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh (C), Sanjay, Amit Rohidas, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Jugraj Singh, Poovanna CB

Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, Vishnu Kant Singh

Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Selvam Karthi, Aditya Lalage