The Indian hockey team is preparing for the Hobart leg of the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025–26, set to take place from February 20 to 25 at the Tasmania Hockey Centre in Australia. Looking to bounce back from recent challenges, India aims to showcase improved performances against Spain and hosts Australia in a series of competitive matches.
After a learning experience in the Rourkela leg, the team has regrouped with a positive outlook, seeing the upcoming games as a crucial chance to test combinations, refine strategies, and gain momentum for the upcoming Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup and Asian Games. The squad of 24 comprises a mix of experienced players and young talents eager to shine on the global stage.
India will kick off their Hobart campaign against Spain on February 21, followed by a showdown with Australia on February 22. They will then face Spain again on February 24 before wrapping up the leg with a final match against Australia on February 25.
In recent encounters, India and Spain have been evenly matched, with each team securing four wins in their last ten meetings, along with two draws that India later won in shootouts. Against Australia, the hosts have dominated with six wins in their last ten encounters, while India managed two wins and two draws, setting the stage for an intense battle on Australian turf.
Hardik Singh, a two-time Olympic bronze medalist, will lead the team in the absence of Harmanpreet Singh for the Australia leg of the Pro League. The squad welcomes young talents like Amandeep Lakra and Manmeet Singh, alongside rising stars Angad Bir Singh, Araijeet Singh Hundal, and Aditya Arjun Lalage, all eager to make their mark in the forward line.
Looking ahead to the Hobart leg, Hardik Singh expressed his honor in leading the team and emphasized a positive and aggressive mindset for the tournament. He highlighted the energy and potential of the new additions to the squad, emphasizing their role in enhancing the team’s attacking prowess against top-tier opponents.
With a renewed focus and determination, the Indian team is poised to make a strong statement at the Tasmania Hockey Centre, setting the stage for upcoming major tournaments this year.
