Harmanpreet Singh to Lead India’s 20-Member Squad for FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup

India on July 21 unveiled a 20-member squad for the upcoming FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, with experienced defender and ace drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh set to lead the team as it aims to end a long wait for World Cup glory.

The squad selection comes after India's mixed campaign in the FIH Pro League last month, where the team registered four wins, five draws and seven losses, finishing eighth among nine teams, just ahead of Pakistan. With the World Cup approaching, the focus now shifts to improving on a disappointing ninth-place finish in the 2023 edition.

Due to the tournament's squad-size restrictions, four players from the 24-member Pro League group were left out: Amandeep Lakra, Raj Kumar Pal, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, and Selvam Karthi.

India's World Cup history remains a source of motivation. The team won its only title in 1975 in Kuala Lumpur, while also securing bronze in 1971 and silver in 1973. The upcoming tournament marks 50 years since that historic 1975 triumph, adding extra significance to the campaign.

Head coach Craig Fulton described the squad as a balanced blend of seasoned performers and emerging talent.

The goalkeeping responsibilities will be shared by Mohith HS and Suraj Karkera. The defensive unit features Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit, and Yashdeep Siwach. In midfield, veteran Manpreet Singh, India's most-capped player, will partner Hardik Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Nilakanta Sharma, Rajinder Singh, and Aditya Arjun Lalage. The forward line includes Mandeep Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, and Shilanand Lakra.

India have been placed in Pool D alongside England, Pakistan, and Wales, with all group-stage matches scheduled in Amstelveen, Netherlands. The team will begin its campaign against Wales on August 15, followed by England on August 17 and arch-rivals Pakistan on August 19.

Fulton emphasized the team's "press, counter, perform" philosophy and expressed confidence that the squad has an opportunity to create a memorable chapter in Indian hockey history.