Home
Hockey India officially announced the 18-member men's squad for the upcoming Hero Men’s Asia Cup, which will take place at the newly constructed Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar.
India's squad for Hockey Asia Cup revealed
The tournament is scheduled from August 29 to September 7, 2025. This event is especially crucial as it serves as a qualifier for the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium-Netherlands 2026. India is in Pool A and will compete against Japan, China, and Kazakhstan. The team's campaign will kick off on August 29 against China, followed by matches against Japan on August 31, and Kazakhstan on September 1.
The team will once again be led by veteran drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh, who will serve as the captain. The squad is a strong blend of experienced players with great balance across all positions. The goalkeeping responsibilities will be handled by the reliable duo of Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera. The defense will be anchored by Captain Harmanpreet Singh and Amit Rohidas, supported by Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, and Jugraj Singh.
In the midfield, the team features a dynamic core of Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, and Hardik Singh. The forward line is packed with firepower, led by Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Dilpreet Singh, all of whom are ready to challenge opposing defenses. Additionally, Nilam Sanjeep Xess and Selvam Karthi have been named as alternate athletes for the tournament.
Meanwhile, Indian Men’s Team Coach Craig Fulton said while speaking on the team selection said:
“We’ve gone with an experienced squad that understands what it takes to perform in high-pressure situations. The Asia Cup is crucial for us because qualification for the World Cup is at stake, so we needed players who have the composure, resilience, and know-how to deliver. The selection reflects our intent — to put forward a team that can compete strongly and achieve our main objective.”
“I’m very pleased with the balance and quality across the squad. We have leaders in every line — defence, midfield, and attack — and that collective strength is what excites me the most. I think the way this team can play together will be our strongest asset,” he further added.
Indian men’s hockey team for Asia Cup 2025:
Goalkeepers: Krishan Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Defenders: Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh (captain), 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; Reserves: Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Selvam Karthi
ADVERTISEMENT
