India Unveils 24-Member Squad for FIH Men's Pro League 2025-26 in Rourkela
Indian Men's Hockey Team Announced for Upcoming Pro League
On Saturday, Hockey India revealed the 24-member roster for the Indian Men's Hockey Team, set to compete in the FIH Men's Pro League 2025-26. This segment of the tournament will take place from February 10-15, 2026, at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Odisha.
The Rourkela leg will see India face off against formidable teams like Argentina and Belgium, promising thrilling matches against some of the best in international hockey, as stated in a press release from Hockey India.
Squad Composition: A Blend of Youth and Experience
The selected Indian squad showcases a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, aiming for a strong start in their Pro League campaign on home turf. Goalkeeping responsibilities will be managed by Suraj Karkera and Pawan, while the defense will feature Amit Rohidas, Captain Harmanpreet Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, and Nilam Sanjeep Xess, ensuring a solid defensive line.
Amandeep Lakra, who recently excelled in the Men's Hero Hockey India League 2025-26 and was named Hero Player of the Tournament, joins the defenders, highlighting his rising prominence in the senior squad.
Midfield and Forward Line Strength
The midfield will be led by Rajinder Singh, Manmeet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Hardik Singh, Moirangthem Rabichandra Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, and Rosan Kujur, combining experience with creativity and control.
Notably, 21-year-old Rosan Kujur from Odisha receives his first call-up to the senior national team. He was part of the Indian Junior Team that won a Bronze medal at the FIH Junior World Cup 2025 in Chennai and had a standout domestic season with the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, who clinched the Hero Hockey India League 2025-26 title. Manmeet Singh, also a member of the Junior Team, joins the squad after impressive performances in the league.
Coach Craig Fulton on Team Selection
Indian Men's Hockey Team Chief Coach Craig Fulton expressed enthusiasm about the squad, stating, "It's an exciting mix of youth and experience. We have young talents like Rosan, Manmeet, and Amandeep coming through, while the presence of senior players, including those from the India A setup, adds valuable experience. That balance is important for us. Belgium and Argentina are quality sides, but we believe in our abilities and are focused on delivering our best performances."
With strong local support anticipated at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, the Indian team is determined to perform well against Argentina and Belgium in this thrilling segment of the FIH Men's Pro League 2025-26.
Complete Squad List for Rourkela Leg
India's 24-member squad for the FIH Men's Pro League 2025-26 (Rourkela Leg) includes:
- Goalkeepers: Suraj Karkera, Pawan
- Defenders: Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Amandeep Lakra
- Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Manmeet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Hardik Singh, Moirangthem Rabichandra Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Rosan Kujur
- Forwards: Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Selvam Karthi, Mandeep Singh, Araijeet Singh Hundal, Aditya Arjun Lalage