Hockey India names 20-member squad for Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025

As one of the oldest and most respected events in international hockey returns to Malaysia, Team India will look to make its mark once again at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025. The Sanjay-led unit hopes to blend attacking flair with tactical precision as it eyes the coveted title India last lifted in 2010.The 2025 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is the 31st edition of the tournament.

Hockey India on Saturday announced a 20-member squad for the 31st edition of the tournament, scheduled to take place in Ipoh, Malaysia, from November 23 to 30. Defender Sanjay will captain the side in the prestigious invitational event that has long been a testing ground for the world’s best teams.

India will open its campaign against Korea on November 23, followed by a clash with Belgium the next day. The Men in Blue will then face hosts Malaysia on November 26, New Zealand on November 27, and Canada on November 29. The competition follows a round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to the final on November 30.

The squad carries a healthy mix of youth and experience. Pawan and Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar will take charge in goal, while the defence will be manned by Poovanna Chandura Boby, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Yashdeep Siwach, Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas, and captain Sanjay.

In midfield, India will rely on the creativity and control of Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, Vivek Sagar Prasad, and Mohammed Raheel Mouseen. The forward line includes Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Selvam Karthi, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Dilpreet Singh, and Abhishek players known for their attacking energy and finishing touch.

The standby list features Varun Kumar, Vishnu Kant Singh, Hardik Singh, and Angad Bir Singh.

India’s last major success in the tournament came 15 years ago, while the team finished runners-up in 2019. With solid preparation and renewed hunger, the Men in Blue will look to reclaim the crown in Ipoh.

Chief Coach Craig Fulton expressed confidence in his team’s readiness.

“The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has always been a key tournament in the international calendar. We are excited to participate with a balanced squad,” Fulton said. “Our focus is on sharpening both attack and defence, improving decision-making under pressure, and maintaining consistency. This group has shown great discipline and hunger.”

With a disciplined core and ambitious mindset, India will aim to script a memorable campaign in Ipoh and set the tone for the 2026 World Cup and Asian Games cycle.

India won the 2010 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup under the captaincy of Rajpal Singh.