Hockey India Names 18-Member Squad for 2025 Men’s Asia Cup in Rajgir

Hockey India has announced its 18-member squad for the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Tournament 2025, which is set to be held in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 29 to September 7. The high-stakes tournament doubles as a qualifier for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, scheduled to take place in Belgium and the Netherlands.

India, placed in Pool A alongside Japan, China, and Kazakhstan, will kick off its campaign against China on August 29, followed by clashes with Japan on August 31 and Kazakhstan on September 1.

Star drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh will continue to lead the Indian team as captain in the continental tournament.

Head coach Craig Fulton, speaking about the squad selection, emphasized experience and readiness for pressure situations. 

“We’ve gone with an experienced squad that understands what it takes to perform in high-pressure situations,” said Fulton. “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.”

The goalkeeping responsibilities will be shouldered by Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera. The defensive unit, led by captain Harmanpreet, includes experienced names such as Amit Rohidas, along with Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, and Jugraj Singh.

In midfield, India will rely on a strong core consisting of seasoned campaigners like Manpreet Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad, supported by Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, and Hardik Singh.

The forward line boasts a mix of pace and finishing ability, featuring Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Dilpreet Singh. Meanwhile, defender Nilam Sanjeep Xess and forward Selvam Karthi have been named as standby players.

“I’m very pleased with the balance and quality across the squad,” Fulton added. “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.”

With so many seasoned veterans and reliable performers, India will be looking to not just secure a place in the 2026 World Cup but also reclaim continental dominance at home in Rajgir.

Indian Men’s Hockey Squad for Men’s Asia Cup 2025: 

GOALKEEPERS – Krishan B Pathak, Suraj Karkera DEFENDERS – Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, 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 

ALTERNATE ATHLETES – Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Selvam Karthi