Excitement mounts in Indian hockey circles with the reveal of the national team’s 24-member roster for the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025-26 Rourkela phase, set for February 10-15 in Odisha. A fresh face steals the spotlight in this powerhouse lineup.
Odisha’s 21-year-old Roshan Kujur makes his senior debut, building on junior World Cup 2025 bronze in Chennai and heroics with Hero Hockey India League champions Vedanta Kalinga Lancers. Fellow young gun Manmeet Singh from Punjab rounds out the new blood, backed by proven performers.
From goalkeeping duo Suraj Karkera and Pavan to defenders Harmanpreet Singh, Amandeep Lakra, and Jugraj Singh; midfielders Hardik Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, and Rabichandra Singh; forwards Shilanand Lakra, Sukhjeet Singh, and Aditya Lalage—the team is primed for battle.
Craig Fulton, the head coach, shared insights: ‘This youth-experience cocktail, with players from India-A, fuels our drive. Top teams await, yet we’re tuned for excellence.’
Rourkela promises fireworks as India hosts Argentina and Belgium. This selection not only balances departments but ignites hope for sustained success. As players converge, the nation rallies behind a squad blending flair, grit, and tactical acumen for a memorable campaign.