Could Hockey India's Harmanpreet-led squad excel on the Tour of Australia?
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Synopsis
Hockey India has revealed a 24-member men's team led by Harmanpreet Singh for the upcoming Tour of Australia. Scheduled from August 15 to 21, this tour is vital preparation for the crucial Asia Cup. The team's composition includes promising young talents, aiming to gain exposure and experience ahead of competitive matches.
Key Takeaways
- 24-member men's team announced for Tour of Australia.
- Led by Harmanpreet Singh, focusing on skill enhancement.
- Tour scheduled from August 15 to 21.
- Preparation for Asia Cup in Bihar.
- Young players included for valuable exposure.
New Delhi, Aug 4 (NationPress) Hockey India has officially announced a 24-member men's team set to embark on a four-match Tour of Australia, taking place from August 15 to 21 in Perth. This tour serves as a crucial exposure opportunity in preparation for the pivotal Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, commencing on August 29, which is essential for World Cup qualification.
The squad, captained by renowned dragflicker and defender Harmanpreet Singh, is set to depart for Australia on August 8 from Bengaluru, where they have been training at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) campus.
Included in the team are goalkeepers Krishan Pathak and Suraj Karkera. Defenders alongside Harmanpreet include Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Amit Rohidas, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Jugraj Singh, with Karnataka's Poovanna CB making his debut in the lineup.
Among the midfielders is the promising Rajinder Singh, who draws comparisons to the legendary former captain Sardar Singh. He is joined by Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, and Vishnu Kant Singh. The forward line consists of Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Selvam Karthi, and Aditya Lalage.
In anticipation of the tour, chief coach Craig Fulton emphasized, "Our trip to Perth is aimed at fine-tuning our skills ahead of the Asia Cup in Bihar. We will concentrate on enhancing our physical fitness and technical skills through quality training and practice matches."
Fulton further highlighted the importance of evaluating younger players and providing them with valuable experience. He stated, "We are including younger athletes to offer them crucial exposure and test various combinations under pressure. This camp is instrumental in our preparation and a chance to build both individual and team momentum before competing at home."
Goalkeepers: Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera
Defenders: Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh (C), Sanjay, Amit Rohidas, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Jugraj Singh, Poovanna CB
Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, Vishnu Kant Singh
Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Selvam Karthi, Aditya Lalage
Point of View
I believe that this tour not only serves as a vital preparation for the Asia Cup but also presents an opportunity for our young players to shine. By blending experience with youthful energy, Hockey India is paving the way for a promising future in the sport. We stand firmly behind our national team as they embark on this crucial journey.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the schedule for the Tour of Australia?
The Tour of Australia is scheduled from August 15 to 21, 2023.
Who is leading the Indian men's team?
The team is led by Harmanpreet Singh, a renowned dragflicker and defender.
What is the purpose of this tour?
This tour serves as an exposure opportunity for the team ahead of the Asia Cup, which is a World Cup qualifier.
When does the Asia Cup take place?
The Asia Cup is scheduled to begin on August 29, 2023, in Rajgir, Bihar.
What is the significance of this tour for young players?
The tour provides valuable exposure for younger players and the chance to test their skills under pressure.
