Who is in the 24-member men's team for FIH Hockey Pro League European leg?
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Synopsis
Hockey India has officially named a 24-member men's team for the FIH Hockey Pro League European leg, set to unfold in June. With seasoned players and a strategic approach, the team aims to secure points for World Cup qualification. Discover the squad details and insights from coach Craig Fulton as they gear up for this crucial leg.
Key Takeaways
- Hockey India has announced a 24-member men's team for the European leg.
- The tournament will occur in Amstelveen and Antwerp from June 7 to 22.
- Harmanpreet Singh will serve as captain, with Hardik Singh as vice-captain.
- The team aims for World Cup qualification through strong performances.
- Coaching strategies emphasize improving penalty corner conversions.
New Delhi, May 22 (NationPress) Hockey India has revealed the 24-member Indian men’s squad for the upcoming European leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25. This tournament will unfold in Amstelveen, Netherlands and Antwerp, Belgium from June 7 to 22.
The team will be captained by Harmanpreet Singh, a seasoned dragflicker, while Hardik Singh will support him as vice-captain. India’s European journey will commence with two matches against the Netherlands on June 7 and 9, followed by a double-header against Argentina on June 11 and 12 at the Wagner Stadium in Amstelveen.
Next, the squad will head to Antwerp for matches against Australia on June 14 and 15, concluding their campaign against the home team, Belgium, on June 21 and 22.
In terms of goalkeeping, Krishan Bahadur Pathak and Suraj Karkera will safeguard the net. The defensive lineup features Sumit, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Harmanpreet Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, and Yashdeep Siwach.
The midfield includes Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Hardik Singh, Rajinder Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, and Shamsher Singh, while the forwards are Gurjant Singh, Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra, Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Dilpreet Singh, and Sukhjeet Singh.
Earlier this year, India played the home leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 in Bhubaneswar, gathering fifteen points through five wins in eight matches, currently placing them third in the points table. The top team of the league will secure a slot in the 2026 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup, making it crucial for India to enhance their performance and accumulate maximum points in the upcoming eight matches.
Regarding the team selection, chief coach Craig Fulton expressed, “We sought to incorporate more experience in the squad this time, and I am pleased with our choices. The team has been training effectively as we aim to push hard and clinch the Pro League. With World Cup qualification at stake, our goal is to earn as many points as possible to position ourselves favorably.”
Reflecting on the Bhubaneswar leg and future strategies, Fulton noted, “Thus far, we haven’t drawn any games in the tournament. We need to convert our losses into draws and aim for shootouts, ensuring we can still earn points if results don’t align. Additionally, improving our penalty corner conversion rate remains a priority, providing us with clear objectives for this leg.”
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Krishan Bahadur Pathak, Suraj Karkera
Defenders: Sumit, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Harmanpreet Singh (C), Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Yashdeep Siwach.
Midfielders: Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Hardik Singh (VC), Rajinder Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Shamsher Singh
Forwards: Gurjant Singh, Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra, Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Dilpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh.
Point of View
The announcement of the men's team for the FIH Hockey Pro League European leg reflects Hockey India's commitment to fostering talent and enhancing the team's competitive edge. The focus on experienced players alongside emerging talent showcases a balanced approach. As the tournament progresses, the nation stands united in support of the team, hoping for exceptional performances and successful qualification for the World Cup.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FIH Hockey Pro League?
The FIH Hockey Pro League is an international field hockey tournament featuring national teams competing for points to qualify for prestigious events like the World Cup.
When does the European leg take place?
The European leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 is scheduled from June 7 to June 22, 2024.
Who is the captain of the Indian men's team?
The Indian men's team will be led by experienced dragflicker Harmanpreet Singh.
Where will the matches be held?
The matches will take place in Amstelveen, Netherlands and Antwerp, Belgium.
What are the team's goals for this tournament?
The team's primary goal is to secure as many points as possible for World Cup qualification.
