A men's squad consisting of twenty-four players has been formally selected by Hockey India for the European phase of the FIH Pro League 2024/25, which is scheduled to take place in Amstelveen, Netherlands and Antwerp, Belgium among other locations from June 7 to June 22. Harmanpreet Singh, a talented defender and drag-flicker, will serve as the team's captain, while Hardik Singh, a dynamic midfielder, will be designated the team's deputy director of operations. At the beginning of their campaign, India will play a doubleheader against the Netherlands, who are hosting the tournament, on June 7 and 9, in Amstelveen. After that, they will travel to Antwerp to play Argentina on June 11 and 12. In order for India to adequately prepare for forthcoming international events and to make progress toward Los Angeles 2028, these four high-intensity matches are very necessary.
Core that is Experienced and Composed of a Mix of Youth?
Several players that contributed significantly to the team's performance in the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024 have returned to the squad, ensuring that the team maintains a strong core from recent competitions. Harmanpreet Singh, who will serve as the captain of the defense, will be assisted by Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, and Nilam Sanjeep Xess. A position is also found for the young defender Yashdeep Siwach, who contributes to the back line by offering additional depth and movement.
In goal, India has chosen to go with the dependable combo of Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera, both of whom have demonstrated their worth in high-pressure international matches despite their lack of experience.
Does the Midfield Consist of Familiar Faces?
Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, and Vivek Sagar Prasad, including the ever-improving Raj Kumar Pal and Shamsher Singh, are among the veteran players who have returned to the midfield engine room. Other players include Shamsher Singh and Raj Kumar Pal. Hardik Singh, who is the vice captain, will play a significant role in transitions, providing both creative and defensive cover. Meanwhile, Rajinder Singh will have another opportunity to demonstrate his flexibility.
The attacking line of India is characterized by a versatile combination of flair, quickness, and finishing. In addition to the immense expertise that Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, and Dilpreet Singh bring to the circle, Gurjant Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, and Abhishek bring to the table aggressiveness and mobility. The addition of Shilanand Lakra, who is known for his straight runs and flair for scoring goals, brings an additional dimension to the team.
Full Squad:
Goalkeepers:
- Krishan B Pathak
- Suraj Karkera
Defenders:
- Sumit
- Amit Rohidas
- Jugraj Singh
- Nilam Sanjeep Xess
- Harmanpreet Singh (Captain)
- Jarmanpreet Singh
- Sanjay
- Yashdeep Siwach
Midfielders:
- Raj Kumar Pal
- Nilakanta Sharma
- Hardik Singh (Vice-Captain)
- Hardik Singh
- Rajinder Singh
- Manpreet Singh
- Vivek Sagar Prasad
- Shamsher Singh
Forwards:
- Gurjant Singh
- Abhishek
- Shilanand Lakra
- Mandeep Singh
- Lalit Kumar Upadhyay
- Dilpreet Singh
- Sukhjeet Singh
Looking Ahead
With the goal of going higher in the FIH global rankings and refining its core group in preparation for a crowded international schedule, India will be working to improve on its recent performances in the Pro League. Craig Fulton, the head coach of the squad, will gather crucial information from the matches against top-tier teams such as the Netherlands and Argentina as the team works toward achieving long-term goals such as the 2026 Hockey World Cup and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The squad's tactical versatility, endurance, and ability to remain calm under duress are all going to be put to the test during the European leg. India will attempt to make a powerful statement in Amstelveen and Antwerp by utilizing a combination of seasoned professionals and talents that are just beginning to emerge.
