India Unveils 20-Member Men’s Squad for FIH Hockey World Cup 2026
New Delhi, 21 July 2026: Hockey India has officially announced the Indian Men’s Squad for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, set to take place in Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15 to 30. The team will be led by Harmanpreet Singh, who is eager to have the squad “write its own chapter in Indian hockey history,” according to Chief Coach Craig Fulton.
Harmanpreet, known for his skills as a defender and drag-flicker, is joined by veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh, who holds the record for being the most-capped player in the team. The squad features a good mix of experienced players and promising young talent.
“This is a well-rounded team,” Chief Coach Fulton shared. “We have a blend of players who have been through tournaments before and young stars who have proven themselves through their hard work.”
The goalkeeping responsibilities will be handled by Mohith HS and Suraj Karkera. The defense includes Harmanpreet, along with Jarmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit, and Yashdeep Siwach.
In midfield, Manpreet will lead a trio alongside Hardik Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad. They will be joined by promising talents Rajinder Singh and Aditya Arjun Lalage. The forward line will feature Mandeep Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, and Shilanand Lakra.
India is placed in Pool D, where they will face tough competitors like England, Pakistan, and Wales. All matches in the pool stage will be played in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
Fulton emphasized the team’s strategy, stating, “Our focus is simple: press, counter, and perform. It reflects our training and mindset every day. We’re taking it one game at a time.”
India kicks off its campaign against Wales on August 15, followed by matches against England on August 17 and arch-rivals Pakistan on August 19, which is expected to be a highlight of the pool stage.
“Celebrating fifty years since our 1975 World Cup victory, this group has a chance to make its mark in Indian hockey,” Fulton concluded.
Here’s the complete squad:
- Goalkeepers: Mohith HS, Suraj Karkera
- Defenders: Jarmanpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh (c), Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit, Yashdeep Siwach
- Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad
- Forwards: Dilpreet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Sukhjeet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Abhishek
