Hockey India has officially named a 24-member men’s team for the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2024/25, set to take place in Amstelveen, Netherlands and Antwerp, Belgium from June 7 to 22.
The team will be led by ace drag-flicker and defender Harmanpreet Singh, with dynamic midfielder Hardik Singh named as the vice-captain.
India’s campaign begins with a double-header against hosts Netherlands on June 7 and 9 in Amstelveen, before shifting to Antwerp to face Argentina on June 11 and 12.
These four high-intensity clashes are crucial for India’s preparations ahead of upcoming global competitions and the road to Los Angeles 2028.
Experienced Core with a Mix of Youth
The squad retains a strong nucleus from recent tournaments, with several players who featured prominently at the Paris 2024 Olympics returning to the fold. Captain Harmanpreet Singh will anchor the defence, supported by Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, and Nilam Sanjeep Xess. Young defender Yashdeep Siwach also finds a place, providing added depth and mobility at the back.
In goal, India has opted for the reliable duo of Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera, both of whom have proven credentials in high-pressure international matches.
Midfield Led by Familiar Faces
The midfield engine room sees the return of seasoned campaigners such as Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, and Vivek Sagar Prasad, alongside the ever-improving Raj Kumar Pal and Shamsher Singh. Vice-captain Hardik Singh will be crucial in transitions, offering creativity and defensive cover, while Rajinder Singh gets another opportunity to showcase his versatility.
India’s forward line features a potent mix of flair, pace, and finishing. Mandeep Singh, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, and Dilpreet Singh bring with them vast experience, while Gurjant Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, and Abhishek add aggression and movement in the circle. The inclusion of Shilanand Lakra adds another dimension with his direct runs and goal-scoring instinct.
Full Squad:
Goalkeepers:
- Krishan B Pathak
- Suraj Karkera
Defenders:
- Sumit
- Amit Rohidas
- Jugraj Singh
- Nilam Sanjeep Xess
- Harmanpreet Singh (Captain)
- Jarmanpreet Singh
- Sanjay
- Yashdeep Siwach
Midfielders:
- Raj Kumar Pal
- Nilakanta Sharma
- Hardik Singh (Vice-Captain)
- Hardik Singh
- Rajinder Singh
- Manpreet Singh
- Vivek Sagar Prasad
- Shamsher Singh
Forwards:
- Gurjant Singh
- Abhishek
- Shilanand Lakra
- Mandeep Singh
- Lalit Kumar Upadhyay
- Dilpreet Singh
- Sukhjeet Singh
Looking Ahead
India will be aiming to improve on its recent Pro League performances, with an eye on climbing the FIH world rankings and refining its core group ahead of a packed international calendar. The matches against top-tier sides like the Netherlands and Argentina will provide valuable insights for head coach Craig Fulton as the team builds toward long-term goals, including the 2026 Hockey World Cup and Los Angeles 2028.
The European leg promises to test the squad’s tactical flexibility, fitness, and composure under pressure. With a fine blend of experience and emerging talent, India will look to make a strong statement in Amstelveen and Antwerp.
Stay tuned as India embarks on another exciting Pro League chapter from June 7.
