India Unveils 20-Member Squad for FIH Hockey World Cup 2026
India's Squad Announcement for the Upcoming Hockey World Cup
On Monday, Hockey India revealed a 20-member roster for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, set to take place in Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15 to 30. Harmanpreet Singh, a defender known for his exceptional drag-flicking skills, will lead the team as captain. Veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh, who holds the record for the most caps for India, is expected to bring stability to the midfield as the team aims for its first men's World Cup title since 1975.
Chief coach Craig Fulton emphasized that the selection was based on players' current performances rather than their past accolades, highlighting a competitive spirit as they prepare for this major international event. 'This squad is well-balanced, featuring a mix of experienced tournament players and in-form youth who have earned their places through merit,' Fulton stated.
India has been placed in Pool D alongside England, Pakistan, and Wales, with all group-stage matches scheduled to occur in Amstelveen, Netherlands. The team will kick off its campaign against Wales on August 15, followed by a match against England on August 17, and a highly anticipated clash with arch-rivals Pakistan on August 19.
Fulton reiterated the team's commitment to an aggressive style of play while stressing the need to focus on one game at a time. 'Our tactical identity revolves around pressing and countering, which is how we train and think collectively every day. We are not looking too far ahead; our mentality is to take it one match at a time,' he explained.
He also reminded the players of the significant opportunity ahead, as India approaches the 50th anniversary of its historic 1975 World Cup victory. 'This group has a chance to create its own legacy in Indian hockey history, and we are genuinely excited about it,' Fulton concluded.
Indian Squad for FIH Hockey World Cup 2026:
Goalkeepers: Mohith HS, Suraj Karkera
Defenders: Jarmanpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh (c), Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit, Yashdeep Siwach
Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad
Forwards: Dilpreet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Sukhjeet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Abhishek