20.08.2025 20:05
Shamsher Misses Out on Asia Cup Selection
Updated on: Aug 20, 2025 10:21 pm IST
Hockey India announced its Asia Cup squad, missing key players Shamsher Singh and Gurjant Singh. The team aims for World Cup qualification.
NEW DELHI: Hockey India (HI) unveiled the Asia Cup squad on Wednesday, sparking surprises with the omission of two-time Olympic bronze medallist Shamsher Singh from the 18-member team competing for gold in Rajgir from August 29 to September 7.
Talented midfielder Rajinder Singh replaces Shamsher, while Shilanand Lakra takes the spot of the retired Lalit Kumar Upadhyay. The squad led by Harmanpreet Singh also misses Olympic bronze medallist Gurjant Singh and Nilakanta Sharma.
The team retains its core group, playing together for several seasons. Goalkeepers Krishan Pathak and Suraj Karkera will handle the net. Defensive duties fall to Harmanpreet, Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, and Jugraj Singh.
The midfield features veterans Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, and Hardik Singh. In attack, Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Lakra, and returning Dilpreet Singh take charge. Alternate players are Nilam Sanjeep Xess and Selvam Karthi.
“Our experienced squad is set to perform under pressure, crucial for World Cup qualification,” said head coach Craig Fulton. “The selection highlights our competitive intent. I’m excited by the squad’s balance, with leaders in every line — defence, midfield, and attack, making our collective strength our main asset.”
The Asia Cup winner earns a spot in the 2026 World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. Hosts India face China (August 29), Japan (August 31), and Kazakhstan (September 1) in Pool A. Pool B includes Malaysia, defending champions South Korea, Bangladesh, and Chinese Taipei. The top two from each group reach the Super 4s.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Krishan B Pathak, Suraj Karkera
Defenders: Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh
Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad
Forwards: Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh
Alternate athletes: Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Selvam Karthi