Will India’s Harmanpreet-Led Squad Shine in the Hockey Men’s Asia Cup?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strong leadership with Harmanpreet Singh as captain.
- Experienced squad featuring depth across positions.
- Focus on World Cup qualification through the Asia Cup.
- Balanced team with leaders in defense, midfield, and attack.
- Exciting matches against Japan, China, and Kazakhstan ahead.
New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) Hockey India has officially revealed the 18-player roster for the forthcoming Men’s Asia Cup, set to take place at the newly constructed Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar from August 29 to September 7. Veteran drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh will retain his role as captain during this prestigious continental event. The squad is composed of a robust mix of seasoned players, ensuring depth and balance in every area.
As a qualifier for the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium-Netherlands 2026, India finds itself in Pool A alongside Japan, China, and Kazakhstan. India will kick off its campaign against China on August 29, followed by encounters against Japan on August 31 and Kazakhstan on September 1.
The goalkeeping responsibilities will be divided between the reliable Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera. In defense, captain Harmanpreet, along with Amit Rohidas, will be joined by Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, and Jugraj Singh, creating a formidable defensive line.
The midfield will feature Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, and Hardik Singh. Leading the offensive charge will be the forward line, which includes Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Dilpreet Singh, promising ample firepower to challenge opponents.
Additionally, Nilam Sanjeep Xess and Selvam Karthi have been designated as alternate players.
Regarding the team selection, coach Craig Fulton stated, “We’ve chosen an experienced squad that knows how to excel under pressure. The Asia Cup is vital for us as we aim for World Cup qualification, so we selected players with the composure, resilience, and skills necessary to succeed. Our selection reflects our aim to present a competitive team focused on achieving our primary goal.”
“I’m thrilled with the balance and quality throughout the squad. We have leaders in every line—defense, midfield, and attack—and this collective strength is what excites me the most. The synergy of this team will be our greatest asset,” he added.
Goalkeepers: Krishan B Pathak, Suraj Karkera
Defenders: Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh.
Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad.
Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh.
Alternate athletes: Nilam Sanjeep Xess and Selvam Karthi