Anticipation builds in Indian hockey circles as Hockey India declares a 33-strong probable core group for the senior men’s national camp. Hosted in Rourkela from February 1-7, it directly feeds into the FIH Pro League’s domestic showdown at Birsa Munda Stadium, February 10-15.
Following the pulsating Hero Hockey India League, players return energized. The tournament was a proving ground, merging rookies with seasoned pros for real-world tactical growth.
Craig Fulton, the head coach, elaborated: ‘After HIL, squad refreshment is key. Resting seniors aids recovery, rewarding breakthroughs from others. These Pro League stages in Rourkela and Hobart are essential for World Cup and Asian Games selections.’
Position-wise breakdown: Goalkeepers – Pawan, Suraj Karkera, Mohit Honnenahalli Shashikumar, Prince Deep Singh. Backline: Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, Sumit, Poovanna Chandura Bobby, Yashdeep Siwach, Nilam Sanjeep Jes, Amandeep Lakra.
Engine room: Rajinder Singh, Manmeet Singh, Hardik Singh, Moirangthem Rabichandra Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Vishnu Kant Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Roshan Kujur. Strikers: Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Mandeep Singh, Arjit Singh Hundal, Angad Bir Singh, Uttam Singh, Selvam Karthi, Aditya Arjun Lalgune, Maninder Singh.
This camp signals India’s intent: a dynamic blend of grit and flair, targeting Pro League success as a stepping stone to global accolades.