On Tuesday, Hockey India revealed the roster for the Indian men’s team participating in the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026. This prestigious event is set to take place in Jalandhar and Mohali from October 27 to November 5. Harmanpreet Singh, who recently led India to a historic gold medal at the Asian Games in Japan, will captain the squad, marking the first time India has successfully defended its continental title.
Core Team Retained
The selected squad maintains the core group that achieved success at the Asian Games, ensuring continuity as India prepares to face top hockey nations in Asia on home turf. Goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Thakur returns, while young talents Amandeep Lakra and Aditya Arjun Lalage have been given another chance to solidify their positions in the senior team. Additionally, Vishnu Kant Singh and Angad Bir Singh will serve as reserve players alongside the main 18-member squad.
Coach’s Insights on Home Advantage
Chief Coach Craig Fulton expressed excitement about competing in Punjab, stating, “Playing the ACT in Punjab will be something special. This squad combines youth and experience, and we are eager to draw energy from the home crowd. There is nothing quite like participating in a tournament in India, and we have truly missed it.”
Significance of the Tournament
This tournament is particularly meaningful as it marks the return of international hockey to Punjab, a region renowned for its significant contributions to the sport and its legacy of producing legendary players. Matches will be held in Jalandhar and Mohali, showcasing some of Asia’s best hockey talent in a region deeply connected to the game.
India’s Track Record
As the defending champions, India aims to build on their recent achievements and maintain their impressive record in the Asian Champions Trophy, having claimed the title five times, making them the most successful team in the tournament’s history.
Tournament Schedule and Locations
The competition will kick off in Jalandhar, with the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium hosting the opening ceremony and all league matches from October 27 to November 2. The tournament will then transition to Mohali for the semi-finals on November 4, followed by the medal matches on November 5 at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium.
Indian Men’s Hockey Squad for Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026
Goalkeepers
1. Suraj Karkera
2. Krishan Bahadur Pathak
Defenders
3. Sanjay
4. Harmanpreet Singh (c)
5. Amit Rohidas
6. Jugraj Singh
7. Jarmanpreet Singh
8. Amandeep Lakra
Midfielders
9. Rajinder Singh
10. Aditya Arjun Lalage
11. Nilakanta Sharma
12. Hardik Singh
13. Manpreet Singh
Forwards
14. Shilanand Lakra
15. Abhishek
16. Sukhjeet Singh
17. Dilpreet Singh
18. Mandeep Singh
Reserve/Replacement Players
19. Vishnu Kant Singh
20. Angad Bir Singh.