In a strategic move, Hockey India names 33 players in the probable core group for the senior men’s camp in Rourkela, Odisha, from February 1 to 7. This preparation is laser-focused on the FIH Men’s Pro League home phase at Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium, scheduled February 10-15.
Hot on the heels of the Hero Hockey India League, the team reconvenes with sharpened instincts. The domestic league was a goldmine for youngsters, offering match-hardened experience alongside elite internationals.
Head Coach Craig Fulton outlined the philosophy: ‘HIL showed us it’s time to evolve. By sidelining some veterans for workload reasons and promoting standouts, we’re building depth. Rourkela and Hobart Pro League matches are gateways to locking in World Cup and Asian Games squads.’
The comprehensive list spans: Goalkeepers: Pawan, Suraj Karkera, Mohit Honnenahalli Shashikumar, Prince Deep Singh. Defenders: Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, Sumit, Poovanna Chandura Bobby, Yashdeep Siwach, Nilam Sanjeep Jes, Amandeep Lakra.
Midfield anchors: Rajinder Singh, Manmeet Singh, Hardik Singh, Moirangthem Rabichandra Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Vishnu Kant Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Roshan Kujur. Attack line: Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Mandeep Singh, Arjit Singh Hundal, Angad Bir Singh, Uttam Singh, Selvam Karthi, Aditya Arjun Lalgune, Maninder Singh.
India’s hockey faithful anticipate a revitalized unit, poised to dominate the Pro League and propel the nation toward major tournament triumphs.