India’s Hockey Coach Fulton Aims to Reclaim Asia’s Supremacy

Craig Fulton, head coach of the Indian men’s hockey team, faced a challenging period in Europe, watching his team suffer seven consecutive defeats in the FIH Pro League in June. This series of losses prevented the team from qualifying for the 2026 World Cup from the prestigious nine-team event, narrowly avoiding relegation by finishing in eighth place.

Despite the setbacks, Fulton remains optimistic, viewing these results as merely “disappointing.” According to Shane McLeod, the coach who led Belgium to victory in the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Olympics, “India performs exceptionally well in significant tournaments.”

The upcoming Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, scheduled from August 29 to September 7, presents an opportunity for India to secure a World Cup spot in Belgium and the Netherlands. Failure to win would require India to compete in the qualifiers in February-March.

India last won the Asia Cup in 2017. “It’s been a while since we won the Asia Cup, and we need to change that. Securing a direct World Cup berth is our top priority this year,” remarked Fulton from Bengaluru.

“Our training is intense. We are aware of the challenges, but our past successes motivate us. We aim to recreate that dominance and take charge,” he added.

Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the team has recently excelled in international tournaments. They secured gold at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou and qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics. India also remained undefeated to win consecutive Asian Champions Trophy titles in 2023 and 2024.

In the 2017 Asia Cup, India emerged victorious, and in 2022, even with a second-tier team, they clinched bronze after securing 2023 World Cup qualification as hosts.

Fulton expects his squad to maintain its position as Asia’s top team, capturing all three major continental titles simultaneously.

“I don’t see it as pressure; it’s about focus. We have a job to do, and our focus is on executing our plan,” emphasized Fulton, who took over coaching duties in early 2023.

Prior to the Asia Cup, India will tour Australia for four friendly matches in Perth, from August 15-21. The South African coach aims to enhance team skills, improve physical and technical performance, and test strategies against a strong Australian team.

“This tour is crucial for our preparation, building momentum, and competing effectively at home. It’s a stepping stone for the tournament in Bihar,” expressed the 50-year-old, with plans to depart for Perth on Friday.

Managing player workloads and injuries is vital for Fulton. Players spend substantial time away from home, participating in competitions or rigorous national training camps. With the Asia Cup, Pro League, and World Cup, efficient workload management is critical to keep players at their peak for major events.

“Our approach is scientific. We’ve developed an effective formula leading up to the Olympics, ensuring everything is in place and synchronized for training and tournaments,” mentioned Fulton.

“With a well-structured six-week program, proper fitness tapering is essential to be game-ready. We refine our approach daily to get it right, which is paramount,” he stated.

To aid in workload management, Fulton has the assistance of scientific advisor Alan Tan, analytical coach Michael Cosma, and data analyst Artur Lucas.

“We manage all aspects diligently. If an injury occurs, we have a backup ready to step in and contribute. Our contingency plans are reliable,” concluded Fulton.