The Indian Men’s Hockey Team will launch its FIH Men’s Pro League 2025–26 campaign on home soil in Rourkela, with high-stakes encounters against Belgium and Argentina lined up from February 10 to 15 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium.
After an eighth-place finish in the previous edition, India will look to set the tone early this season by capitalising on home conditions and building momentum against two of the world’s most formidable sides.
The Rourkela leg promises six days of intense, top-level hockey, featuring three elite teams. While India are yet to open their account this season, both Argentina and Belgium arrive with early points already on the board. Argentina currently sit second in the standings with 11 points from four matches, having secured three regulation-time wins and one shootout victory. Belgium follow closely in third place with 10 points from four matches, recording three regulation-time wins and one shootout defeat.
India will begin their campaign against Belgium on February 11, followed by a clash with Argentina on February 12. The hosts will meet Belgium again on February 14 before wrapping up their home leg against Argentina on February 15. All matches are scheduled to start at 19:30 IST under the lights in what is expected to be a charged atmosphere.
Testing Themselves Against the Best
Belgium remain one of the most consistent forces in world hockey over the past decade, and their head-to-head record against India reflects that strength. Since 2013, the two nations have met 35 times, with Belgium winning 22 matches, India claiming 11 victories, and two ending in draws. The European giants have often held a tactical edge, particularly in high-pressure encounters.
Against Argentina, however, India have enjoyed comparatively better returns. In 19 meetings since 2013, India have won 10 matches, Argentina seven, with two draws. The South American side’s structured defence and counter-attacking style will test India’s composure, but recent results suggest the contests have been more evenly matched.
For India, the emphasis this week will be on consistency and game management. Playing at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium the world’s largest hockey-specific venue provides both familiarity and expectation. The Rourkela crowd has built a reputation for creating a vibrant, high-energy environment, and that support could prove crucial in tight contests.
Blend of Experience and Youth
The Indian squad features a balanced mix of established internationals and emerging talents. Captain Harmanpreet Singh, who continues to anchor the team both defensively and through penalty corner execution, expressed optimism ahead of the campaign.
“I am very happy to see youngsters like Amandeep Lakra, Manmeet Singh and Rosan Kujur earning their opportunities in the squad. They have performed exceptionally well in the recent Hero Hockey India League and have shown great potential. This is the right time for them to step up at the international level, and I am confident they will make the most of this opportunity,” Harmanpreet said.
He added that the squad is physically prepared and mentally focused. “The entire team is fit, motivated, and excited. We are looking forward to seeing these young players express themselves and contribute strongly to the team’s performance.”
The inclusion of players who impressed in the Hero Hockey India League underlines India’s intent to build depth and long-term continuity. Exposure at this level, particularly against Belgium and Argentina, will provide valuable experience as the team shapes its core ahead of future global tournaments.
Belgium captain Arthur Van Doren acknowledged the importance of preparation and familiarity with Indian conditions. Several Belgian players featured in the Hero Hockey India League, and the squad arrived early in Rourkela to acclimatise.
“The Hero Hockey India League experience was great. I personally love coming to India, and winning the league made it even more special,” Van Doren said. “Spending time here helps you get used to the conditions and the culture. We had a solid and intense training block here, which meant we spent quality time together as a group during the winter.”
He added that the Belgian team feels sharp and confident heading into the leg, emphasising the cohesion built during their extended stay.
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For India, this Rourkela leg represents more than just four matches. It is an opportunity to reset after last season and establish a stronger position in the standings from the outset. Early points in the Pro League often prove decisive when qualification scenarios tighten later in the season.
Facing Belgium and Argentina back-to-back will demand tactical discipline, efficient finishing, and resilience under pressure. If India can convert home advantage into results, it could shape the trajectory of their entire campaign. With packed stands expected and two of the world’s elite teams in town, Rourkela is set to witness a defining chapter in India’s 2025–26 Pro League journey.
