Indian Men's Hockey Team Prepares for World Cup with European Pro League Matches
Importance of European Matches
Craig Fulton, the head coach of the Indian men's hockey team, emphasized that the upcoming European segment of the FIH Pro League is crucial for the team's preparation ahead of the World Cup. He stated that facing 'world-class opposition' will provide valuable insights into their readiness.
Team Announcement
On Wednesday, Hockey India revealed a strong 24-member squad for the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2025-26. Harmanpreet Singh is set to return as captain after taking a personal break during the Hobart leg earlier this year.
Match Schedule and Locations
The Indian team will engage in a friendly match in Belgium before competing in Rotterdam, Netherlands, which is a co-host for the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup. Following their victory at the 2025 Asia Cup, India has secured direct entry into this prestigious tournament. After clinching two bronze medals at the Olympics, the team aims to win the World Cup for the first time in 51 years.
Coach's Insights on Training
Craig Fulton shared his thoughts on the squad's preparation, stating, 'The training sessions have been productive, and the players are in excellent condition. The Pro League matches in Holland and England will serve as essential tests to gauge our World Cup readiness. We are eager for the challenge ahead.'
Training Camp and Match Details
The Indian team will head to Brussels, Belgium, for a training camp and friendly match from June 7 to 9, 2026. They will then move to Rotterdam for Pro League matches against Germany and the Netherlands from June 14 to 21, 2026. The squad will conclude their European tour in London, facing Pakistan and England from June 23 to 28, as per Hockey India's announcement.
Squad Composition
The selected squad features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, strategically assembled to strengthen the team for the World Cup. Captain Harmanpreet Singh will lead a solid defense alongside Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, and newcomer Amandeep Lakra.
The midfield will be supported by seasoned players Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, and Vivek Sagar Prasad, along with Raj Kumar Pal. The forward line boasts dynamic attackers such as Mandeep Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Abhishek, and Selvam Karthi.
Additionally, Hockey India has named five standby players, including goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, forwards Araijeet Singh Hundal and Maninder Singh, defender Poovanna Chandura Boby, and midfielder Vishnu Kant Singh.
Indian Men's Hockey Team (24-Member Squad)
- Goalkeepers: Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar, Suraj Karkera
- Defenders: Harmanpreet Singh (captain), Amit Rohidas, Sumit, Sanjay, Yashdeep Siwach, Amandeep Lakra, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh
- Midfielders: Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem
- Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Abhishek, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Dilpreet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Selvam Karthi
Match Schedule for the European Leg (All Times IST)
Rotterdam, The Netherlands:
* 14 June 2026: Netherlands vs India - 19:30 hrs
* 17 June 2026: India vs Germany - 23:00 hrs
* 18 June 2026: Germany vs India - 23:00 hrs
* 21 June 2026: Netherlands vs India - 17:30 hrs
London, England:
* 23 June 2026: Pakistan vs India - 19:00 hrs
* 25 June 2026: England vs India - 12:00 hrs (midnight)
* 26 June 2026: India vs Pakistan - 22:30 hrs
* 28 June 2026: England vs India - 20:30 hrs.