India announced the Asian Games hockey team with one key change

ByTech Word News

India made just one change to its men’s hockey squad for the Asian Games, with midfielder Raj Kumar Pal replacing youngster Aditya Arjun Lagale in the 20-man squad for the tournament in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Voters have otherwise retained the group that will represent the country at next month’s FIH Ice Hockey World Championship.

The decision reflects India’s intention to rely on the established core as they want to defend the Asian Games gold medal they won in Hangzhou. The tournament also has additional significance, with the champions directly qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Head coach Craig Fulton said the team has the experience needed to rise to the challenge of playing away from home in a high-stakes tournament.

“The Indian team selected for the Asian Games is very experienced. We are looking forward to the challenge of playing in Japan where the winner will qualify for the LA 2028 Olympics and that is the ultimate goal for us as a team and as a nation,” Fulton said.

The only change to the World Cup squad is the return of Raj Kumar after missing out on the global tournament, while Lagale will instead remain in the World Cup group. Harmanpreet Singh continues to captain the team, veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh is among the experienced names retained for the title defence.

ONE CHANGE FOR THE ASIAN GAMES

Apart from the inclusion of Raj Kumar, the selectors have resisted making major changes to the team. Mohith HS and Suraj Karkera have been named as the two goalkeepers while the defense will once again be led by Harmanpreet alongside Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Sumit and Yashdeep Siwach.

Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad and Rajinder Singh play in the midfield while Abhishek, Mandeep Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh and Shilanand Lakra complete the front row.

India have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Japan, Korea, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Indonesia as they bid to retain the title they won three years ago.

“Whether they are youngsters or senior players, I have full faith in all the players to make good use of the opportunities they get. The main aim is not to succumb to pressure, enjoy the game and understand your responsibility,” said Harmanpreet.

LA OLYMPIC PLACE AT STAKE

While India will first turn their attention to the FIFA World Cup, the Asian Games remain one of the biggest tasks of the season because of the Olympic qualification on offer. A win in Japan would see Harmanpreet’s side not only retain the continental crown but also secure an early berth at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

India will begin their campaign against Indonesia on September 20 before taking on Sri Lanka, Korea, hosts Japan and Bangladesh in the remaining Group A matches.

India Asian Games Men’s Hockey Team:

  • Goalkeepers: Mohith HS, Suraj Karkera.
  • Defenders: Jarmanpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh (captain), Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit, Yashdeep Siwach.
  • Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad.
  • Forwards: Dilpreet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Sukhjeet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Abhishek.

– The end

Published on:

29 Jul 2026 14:43 IST