New Delhi, Feb 10 (NationPress) The Indian men's hockey team is set to kick off its FIH Men’s Pro League 2025–26 campaign at home during the Rourkela leg, taking place from February 10 to 15 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium. The hosts will face off against Belgium and Argentina in what is anticipated to be an electrifying start to the season.

After finishing eighth in the last edition, India is determined to launch the new campaign on a victorious note and gain early momentum in front of their home supporters. The roster, which boasts a well-balanced mix of seasoned internationals and promising young talent, will aim to leverage familiar conditions as they challenge two of the world’s top-ranked teams.

While India is yet to commence their season, both Argentina and Belgium arrive in Rourkela following a robust start. Argentina currently holds the second position in the standings with 11 points, having played four matches, achieving three wins in regulation time and one in a shootout. Belgium is right behind them in third place with 10 points, also from four games, having secured three wins and faced one shootout defeat.

India will start their campaign against Belgium on February 11, followed by a match against Argentina on the 12th. The hosts will meet Belgium again on the 14th, concluding the leg with another match against Argentina on February 15.

Historically, Belgium has had the upper hand in recent encounters with India. Since 2013, the teams have clashed 35 times, with Belgium winning 22 matches, India claiming victory in 11, and two matches ending in draws. In contrast, India has a stronger record against Argentina, having won 10 out of their 19 meetings since 2013, while Argentina has secured seven wins, with two matches ending in draws.

As the opening match approaches, Indian team captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed his excitement, stating, “It’s wonderful to see young players like Amandeep Lakra, Manmeet Singh, and Rosan Kujur getting their chances in the squad. They performed exceptionally well in the recent Hero Hockey India League and have shown immense potential. This is the perfect moment for them to shine on the international stage, and I’m confident they will seize this opportunity. The entire team is fit, motivated, and excited, and we look forward to seeing these young players contribute significantly to our performance.”

With passionate fans expected at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, the Indian team aims to turn their home advantage into vital points and make a strong start to their FIH Pro League 2025–26 journey.

Belgium team captain Arthur Van Doren shared his thoughts ahead of the matches against Argentina and India, saying, “My experience in the Hero Hockey India League was fantastic. I personally love visiting India, and winning the league made it even more special. Spending time here allows us to adapt to the conditions and culture, which is always an advantage when we stay longer. Whether that translates into a direct benefit for us as a Belgian team is tough to say; however, arriving early has allowed us to undergo an intense training block, spending quality time together as a group during the winter.

“Moreover, many of our players participated in the Hero Hockey India League and performed exceptionally well. We feel sharp, strong, and there’s a lot of confidence and energy within the squad. Overall, we’re pleased with how our preparations have gone for the Rourkela leg of the Pro League,” he concluded.