Indian Men's Hockey Team Announces 33-Member Probable Squad for Upcoming Camp

Bengaluru, Karnataka- Hockey India on Thursday unveiled a 33-member core probable group for the Senior Men’s National Coaching Camp. The camp is set to commence on July 14 and run until August 7 at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre in Bengaluru.

Crucial Preparations Ahead of Key International Tournaments

This extensive camp is a vital preparatory phase for two significant international assignments: an Australia tour and the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025. The Asia Cup, scheduled to take place from August 29 to September 7, holds immense importance as its winner will secure a direct qualification spot for the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2026.

Rebuilding Momentum After Pro League Setback

Despite a challenging FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 campaign in Europe, where India managed only one victory in eight matches and finished eighth, the coaching staff remains committed to regaining momentum and refining key aspects of their game.

Squad Breakdown: Familiar Faces and Fresh Talent

The goalkeeping unit sees no changes, with Krishan B Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Pawan, and Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar retaining their positions.

The defensive line will be anchored by experienced players like Sumit, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Amandeep Lakra, Harmanpreet Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, and Yashdeep Siwach.

The midfield boasts a blend of experience and youthful vigor, featuring Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Hardik Singh, Moirangthem Rabichandra Singh, Poovanna Chandura Boby, Rajinder Singh, Vishnu Kant Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, and Shamsher Singh.

Upfront, the forward line is packed with firepower, including Gurjant Singh, Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Selvam Karthi, Mandeep Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Uttam Singh, and Angad Bir Singh.

Coach Fulton Emphasizes Finishing Strong and World Cup Qualification

Indian Men’s Hockey Team Chief Coach Craig Fulton acknowledged the team’s competitive spirit in the recent Pro League matches but highlighted the need to improve their finishing ability, an area where they had previously excelled.

Fulton outlined the camp’s clear objectives: to continue developing their ‘defend to counter to win’ approach. He emphasized the excitement surrounding the upcoming Asia Cup in Bihar, stating that winning the tournament and securing direct World Cup qualification is a significant motivator for the entire team.

GOALKEEPERS

Krishan B Pathak

Suraj Karkera

Pawan

Mohith H S

DEFENDERS

Sumit

Amit Rohidas

Jugraj Singh

Nilam Sanjeep Xess

Harmanpreet Singh

Jarmanpreet Singh