The Indian men’s hockey team secured a significant victory at the Asia Cup held in Rajgir, Bihar, reestablishing their position as the top team in Asia. This triumph, achieved after an eight-year gap, marked a standout moment in 2025 for Craig Fulton and his squad, who dominated over strong opponents like Korea, China, and Malaysia during the tournament.
The year commenced on a positive note with a successful performance at the FIH Pro League’s home leg, followed by the revamped Hero Hockey India League (HIL), where emerging players vied for spots in the senior team with their impressive displays. Subsequently, the international season kicked off in Bhubaneswar with the Pro League, witnessing India’s commendable results against Spain, Germany, Ireland, and England.
Despite a strong start, the Pro League concluded on a less favorable note for India during their European stint, managing only one win against Belgium while facing defeats against Australia, the Netherlands, and Argentina in June. However, the team redeemed themselves in August by clinching the Asian crown, showcasing their prowess once again.
Another notable event for the team was their performance in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where the India ‘A’ side, comprising key players like Harmanpreet Singh, Manpreet Singh, and Hardik Singh, displayed a spirited effort. Although they narrowly missed the title to Belgium with a 0-1 score, they displayed impressive victories against Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Expressing his views on the successful year, Captain Harmanpreet Singh highlighted the significance of the team’s performance in the Azlan Shah Cup, emphasizing the depth of talent in the squad. Singh, the top goal scorer for India in the year, looks forward to a busy 2026 with upcoming events like the Asian Games and the World Cup, foreseeing diverse options for the team.
