Hockey India has revealed the 18-player lineup for the upcoming Men’s Asia Cup.
Hockey India has announced their 18-member roster for the Hero Men’s Asia Cup 2025 in Bihar. Captain Harmanpreet Singh heads a balanced team.
On Wednesday, Hockey India announced the 18-member Indian men’s hockey team for the Hero Men’s Asia Cup, scheduled to take place at the newly constructed Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar from August 29 to September 7, 2025.
Serving as a qualifier for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in Belgium and the Netherlands, the tournament places India in Pool A alongside Japan, China, and Kazakhstan. India will kick off their campaign against China on August 29, followed by matches against Japan on August 31 and Kazakhstan on September 1.
Seasoned drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh will retain the captaincy for the continental event. The team includes a blend of veteran players and well-rounded talent in all areas, providing strength in defiance, midfield, and forward positions.
Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera will divide the goalkeeping responsibilities. Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, and Jugraj Singh form a solid defensive unit. Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, and Hardik Singh make up the midfield, while Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Dilpreet Singh lead the forward line, offering plenty of offensive firepower.
Speaking about the team selection, Indian Men’s Team Coach Craig Fulton said, “We have chosen a veteran squad familiar with the demands of performing under pressure. The Asia Cup is vital as it determines World Cup qualification, so we required players who possess calmness, determination, and experience to succeed. This selection embodies our aim — to present a team that can compete effectively and accomplish our key goal.”
He further remarked, “I’m really satisfied with the squad’s balance and overall quality. There are leaders throughout the defence, midfield, and forward lines, and it’s this combined strength that excites me the most. I believe the team’s ability to work cohesively will be our greatest advantage.”
Indian Men’s Hockey Squad: Hero Asia Cup 2025
The squad includes goalkeepers Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera. The defensive unit features Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, captain Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Jugraj Singh. In midfield, the team will rely on Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, and Vivek Sagar Prasad. The forward line is composed of Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, and Dilpreet Singh. Nilam Sanjeep Xess and Selvam Karthi have been named as reserve players.
