Hockey India has announced a 16-member Indian men’s hockey team that will compete at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, scheduled from July 26th to August 11th, 2024. The squad, which features five Olympic debutants, will be led by ace drag-flicker and defender Harmanpreet Singh, with powerful midfielder Hardik Singh serving as vice-captain. This will be Harmanpreet’s third Olympic appearance, having made his debut as the youngest member of the Indian squad at the 2016 Rio Olympics and contributing to the bronze medal win at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The team also includes veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and midfielder Manpreet Singh, both of whom are set to make their fourth Olympic appearance.
The five players set to make their Olympic debut in Paris are Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Raj Kumar Pal, Abhishek, and Sukhjeet Singh. Commenting on the team selection, chief coach Craig Fulton expressed confidence in the chosen players, stating that they have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and resilience throughout the preparation phase. He highlighted the team’s balanced composition, featuring a blend of experienced players and promising young talents, which provides the versatility and energy required to face the challenges ahead.
Fulton emphasized the team’s focus on building a cohesive unit that can adapt to different playing styles and situations. He expressed the team’s unwavering determination to play with heart, skill, and determination, striving for the highest podium finish in Paris. India has been drawn in Pool B alongside defending champions Belgium, Australia, Argentina, New Zealand, and Ireland. To secure a place in the quarterfinals, India must finish within the top four of their pool. The Men in Blue will begin their campaign on July 27th against New Zealand, followed by a match against Argentina on July 29th. Subsequent matches include Ireland and Belgium on July 30th and August 1st, respectively, with their final group stage game against Australia scheduled for August 2nd.
The Indian men’s hockey team boasts a rich Olympic history, having won an impressive 12 Olympic medals, including eight gold, one silver, and three bronze medals. The Harmanpreet-led team will be aiming to add another medal to India’s already impressive collection.
