Harmanpreet Singh Named Captain for India’s FIH Pro League European Campaign
Harmanpreet Singh returns to lead India in FIH Pro League European leg.
Captain and star drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh has returned to lead a 24-member Indian men’s hockey squad for the European leg of the upcoming FIH Pro League, with the team set for a key preparatory stretch ahead of the World Cup in August. Harmanpreet had missed the Hobart leg earlier this year due to personal reasons but now resumes leadership duties as India prepares for a demanding international schedule.
The team will first travel to Brussels for a short training camp and a friendly match between June 7 and 9. This will be followed by the main Pro League fixtures in Rotterdam, where India will face Germany and the Netherlands from June 14 to 21. The European tour will conclude in London with matches against Pakistan and England scheduled between June 23 and 28, marking a crucial phase in India’s World Cup buildup.
The squad reflects a balanced mix of experienced players and young talent, with the coaching staff aiming to solidify the core unit ahead of major international tournaments. Key defenders backing Harmanpreet include Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh, and emerging defender Amandeep Lakra, forming a structured defensive line.
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In midfield, India will rely on experienced players such as Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, and Vivek Sagar Prasad, along with Raj Kumar Pal, to control tempo and transitions. The forward line features attacking options including Mandeep Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Abhishek, and Selvam Karthi, providing depth in goal-scoring options.
Goalkeepers Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar and Suraj Karkera complete the squad, while several players, including Araijeet Singh Hundal and others, have been named as standbys. Head coach Craig Fulton described the European fixtures as vital testing grounds, stating that matches against top-tier opposition will provide a clear measure of India’s readiness for the World Cup and help refine combinations under high-intensity conditions.
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