With just four points from eight matches, the Indian men’s hockey team is currently second to last in the FIH Pro League. They are striving to move out of the relegation zone and secure their spot for the next season. Despite having only three draws and a shoot-out bonus so far, the team is determined to perform better in the upcoming matches.
Apart from seeking a higher position in the Pro League standings, these matches will serve as crucial preparation for the 2026 FIH World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the Indian team will face the Netherlands and Germany in the upcoming leg of the Pro League, aiming to make significant progress in this important year.
The team’s immediate focus is on the Netherlands leg, where they will play against the hosts and Germany in key fixtures. The matches against top-ranked opposition will provide a valuable test for the Indian team’s different combinations and strategies. Chief coach Craig Fulton emphasized the importance of these games in shaping the team’s performance leading up to the World Cup.
India’s upcoming matches in the Pro League will be vital for their overall campaign. The team will also have the opportunity to play in the Netherlands, offering ideal tournament conditions and a great atmosphere for competitive hockey. Moreover, the clash against the Netherlands will be a special occasion for veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh, who is set to equal the record for the most international appearances for India.
