Asia Cup Hockey: 18-member team announced for tournament in Rajgir
Hockey India has announced an 18-member squad for the Men's Asia Cup, taking place at Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar from August 29 to September 7. The tournament, serving as a qualifier for the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium-Netherlands 2026, places India in Pool A alongside Japan, China, and Kazakhstan, with Harmanpreet Singh leading the team as captain.
India's campaign begins against China on August 29, followed by matches against Japan on August 31 and Kazakhstan on September 1.
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The team features a mix of experienced players across all positions. Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera will handle the goalkeeping responsibilities. The defensive lineup includes captain Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, and Jugraj Singh.
The midfield consists of Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, and Hardik Singh.
The forward line features Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Dilpreet Singh. Nilam Sanjeep Xess and Selvam Karthi have been named as reserve players.
"We've gone with an experienced squad that understands what it takes to perform in high-pressure situations. The Asia Cup is crucial for us because qualification for the World Cup is at stake, so we needed players who have the composure, resilience, and know-how to deliver.
The selection reflects our intent -- to put forward a team that can compete strongly and achieve our main objective," said Indian Men's Team Coach Craig Fulton.
"I'm very pleased with the balance and quality across the squad. We have leaders in every line -- defence, midfield, and attack -- and that collective strength is what excites me the most. I think the way this team can play together will be our strongest asset," Fulton added.
India men's hockey squad:
Goalkeepers:
Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera
Defenders:
Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Jugraj Singh
Midfielders:
Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, and Vivek Sagar Prasad
Forwards:
Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, and Dilpreet Singh.
Reserves:
Nilam Sanjeep Xess and Selvam Karthi.
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