Indian team announced for Asia Cup Hockey 2025, matches will be played under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Singh

Asia Cup Hockey: Hockey India has announced the 18-member Indian team for the men's hockey Asia Cup to be held in Rajgir, Bihar from 29 August to 7 September 2025. Led by experienced drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh, the team has a great mix of young and experienced players.

Strong defense and offensive strategy

Krishna B Pathak and Suraj Karkera will handle the goalkeeping responsibilities. The defensive line includes captain Harmanpreet Singh along with Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay and Jugraj Singh. Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rajinder Singh, Rajkumar Pal and Hardik Singh will provide strength in the midfield. The attack will be led by Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjit Singh, Shilanand Lakda and Dilpreet Singh. Neelam Sanjeev Jess and Selvam Karthi have been selected as alternate players.

Coach Fulton's confidence, emphasis on unity

Team coach Craig Fulton said, 'We have selected an experienced team, which can perform better under pressure. The Asia Cup is important for us, as qualification for the World Cup is at stake. Our aim is to achieve our objective with strong competition. I am very happy with the balance and quality of the team. We have leading players in every line. Whether it is defense, midfield or attack, our collective strength excites me the most. Team unity is our biggest strength.'

First match against India, China in Pool A

India has been placed in Pool A along with Japan, China and Kazakhstan. The team will start its campaign against China on August 29, followed by Japan on August 31 and Kazakhstan on September 1.

Team

Goalkeepers: Krishna B Pathak, Suraj Karkera

Defenders: Sumit, Germanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh

Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Rajkumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad

Forwarders: Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakda, Abhishek, Sukhjit Singh, Dilpreet Singh

Substitutes: Neelam Sanjeev Jess, Selvam Karthi

It is worth noting that India's performance in the Asia Cup will be important in terms of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and fans are expecting a great performance from this balanced team.