Harmanpreet Singh Calls for Fresh Start Ahead of Key Global Tests

• India shifts focus to the World Cup and Asian Games, marking a fresh start after a challenging season
• Harmanpreet Singh backs the team despite a tough Pro League campaign, stressing belief and long-term progress
• Home Pro League matches seen as a key preparation phase, helping fine-tune strategy and build momentum ahead of major tournaments

After a demanding season that ended with India ranked eighth in the world, men’s hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh says the team is ready for a reset as it prepares for a crucial 2026 season, highlighted by the World Cup and the Asian Games.

India struggled in the recently concluded FIH Pro League, finishing eighth with only six wins. Despite the result, Harmanpreet remains confident the team will rebound. He pointed out that rankings fluctuate and should not define long-term performance. Drawing from past experience, he said India had also been ranked outside the top five before winning Olympic bronze, showing that form can change quickly.

Speaking at an event hosted by Hockey India League (HIL) franchise Soorma HC in Chennai, Harmanpreet said injuries and close losses hurt India’s Pro League campaign. Several matches were decided by narrow margins, and key players missed games due to fitness issues. Still, he stressed that belief in the squad remains strong.

The skipper highlighted the importance of upcoming domestic and international fixtures. The Hockey India League, followed by home Pro League matches, will play a major role in preparing the team for global tournaments. Harmanpreet said these matches will help the coaching staff fine-tune combinations and address gaps before the big events.

He also underlined the importance of the Pro League from a qualification point of view. A strong finish could earn India a direct berth for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, making the tournament even more significant.

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With the World Cup and Asian Games scheduled just weeks apart, workload management will be a key focus area. Harmanpreet said the team management will closely monitor players during training camps to avoid burnout and injuries.

As India looks to bounce back, the captain’s message is clear: stay patient, trust the process, and peak when it matters most.