India Gears Up for FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 European Leg

Hockey India has announced the 24-member squad for the European leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25, set to take place in Amstelveen, Netherlands, and Antwerp, Belgium, from June 7 to June 22. The team, led by experienced drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh as captain and Hardik Singh as vice-captain, aims to secure crucial points in the tournament.  

 

Squad Composition and Leadership  

Tournament Schedule and Key Matches  

- India will begin its campaign with two matches against the Netherlands on June 7 and 9 at the Wagner Stadium in Amstelveen.  

- The team will then face Argentina in a doubleheader on June 11 and 12.  

- In Antwerp, India will play against Australia on June 14 and 15, followed by the final two matches against Belgium on June 21 and 22.  

 

Strategic Goals and Performance Outlook  

- India secured 15 points in the home leg of the tournament in Bhubaneswar, winning five out of eight matches.  

- The team currently stands third in the points table, with the highest-placed team earning direct qualification for the 2026 Men's FIH Hockey World Cup.  

- Chief Coach Craig Fulton emphasized the need for experience in the squad and highlighted objectives such as improving penalty corner conversion rates and securing more points through strategic gameplay.  

 

Future Prospects  

With a strong squad and a clear focus on performance improvement, India aims to maximize its points tally in the European leg. The team’s success in these matches will be crucial in securing a favorable position for World Cup qualification.  

 

Source: Tribune India, The Hans India, Indian Express, Sportstar, UNI India.