New Delhi, 14 August (H.S.):

India's golden era in hockey, marked by the historic 1975 World Cup triumph in Kuala Lumpur, remains etched in the memories of sports fans across the country. Now, 51 years later, the Indian men's hockey team will enter the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 determined to recreate that glory with a new generation of players. Led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, India will begin its campaign against Wales on August 15, with the focus firmly on creating a new chapter in the country's hockey history rather than merely revisiting past achievements.

1975 Triumph a Source of Inspiration, but Focus on New History

India won its only World Cup title in 1975 under the captaincy of Ajit Pal Singh. Coincidentally, Harmanpreet Singh is the second Indian player after Ajit Pal Singh to captain the national side at two World Cups. Harmanpreet first led India at the 2023 World Cup.

India's preparations have also been encouraging. During the final phase of the FIH Pro League, the team defeated reigning world champions Germany and Olympic champions the Netherlands. India also beat arch-rivals Pakistan twice and overcame England in a shootout. Pakistan and England are also in India's group at the World Cup.

England, Pakistan and Wales Pose Challenge

India have been placed in Pool D alongside England, Pakistan and Wales. India will face Wales on August 15, England on August 17 and Pakistan on August 19.

The World Cup format is also challenging this time. The top two teams from each of the four pools in the opening phase will advance to the next stage. The second phase will consist of Pools E and F, while the remaining eight teams will move into Pools G and H for classification matches. The top two teams from each of Pools E and F will qualify for the semi-finals.

Importantly, the points and results secured against teams that qualify for the next stage from the same pool will be carried forward. As a result, every match in the opening phase will be crucial.

Blend of Experience and Youthful Energy

India's squad boasts considerable experience. Mandeep Singh and Manpreet Singh will make their fourth World Cup appearances. Manpreet, who has 417 international appearances to his name, will be India's most-capped player at the tournament.

Harmanpreet, Hardik Singh, Amit Rohidas, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Sumit and Neelakanta Sharma will also provide experience and strength to the squad.

Head coach Craig Fulton, in comments cited by Hockey India, said, “Our strength is our diversity. We have players with tournament, Olympic and World Cup experience, alongside young players who have performed well at the Under-21 level and earned their place in the senior team over the past 18 months. We are excited about this combination.”

Eight players in the Indian squad will make their World Cup debuts. Among them is 23-year-old midfielder Aditya Arjun Lalage, who has so far made 13 international appearances.

World Cup Debut a Special Occasion for Yashdeep Siwach

For defender Yashdeep Siwach, the World Cup will be particularly special. He will make his World Cup debut in the same country where his mother, Preetam Siwach, previously represented India at the World Cup. The occasion adds a distinctive family link to India's rich hockey legacy.

The goalkeeping department will also begin a new chapter, with both of India's goalkeepers, Suraj Karkera and Mohit HS, set to make their World Cup debuts.

A New Beginning on Independence Day

India will begin its World Cup campaign against Wales on August 15, India's Independence Day. While memories of the 1975 triumph will provide inspiration, Harmanpreet and his teammates will have the opportunity to write a fresh chapter in Indian hockey.

Fulton said, “If you look at India's legacy at the Olympics, it is very, very impressive. But we last won the World Cup 51 years ago. So we want to write a new chapter in Indian history. That is our big goal.”

For India, this is more than just another World Cup campaign. It is an opportunity to honour a glorious past, end a 51-year wait and take a decisive step towards becoming world champions once again with a new generation of players.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar