Change of phase: opportunity knocks for India’s young hockey talent Premium

Change of phase: opportunity knocks for India’s young hockey talent

Notwithstanding the absence of hockey in the upcoming Glasgow Commonwealth Games programme, 2026, studded with the World Cup and the Asian Games, presents a packed calendar to the Indian men’s hockey team.

The challenge extends beyond the current year: several experienced players, who were a part of the bronze-winning Paris 2024 team, may not be at peak form and fitness during Los Angeles 2028.

Araijeet Singh Hundal. | Photo Credit: BISWARANJAN ROUT

Such a situation warrants the infusion of younger talent into the side so that they can get into the groove in time to perform the elite India duty well. Considering that, 2026 will serve as the base year during which head coach Craig Fulton can experiment and trigger a transition before entering serious preparatory mode a year before the 2028 Olympics.

With the twin challenges of facing a busy calendar and effecting a smooth change, Fulton trained his eyes on the recently concluded Hockey India League (HIL) in Chennai, Ranchi and Bhubaneswar to spot as many up-and-coming players as he could.

The effort was reflected in the Indian squad of 33 core probables for the home leg of the FIH Pro League scheduled in Rourkela from February 10. Several younger players, who either have not made their debut or have played only a few top-level matches, found their places.