The Indian men’s hockey team is set to host reigning world champion Germany in a two-match bilateral series at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. The matches, scheduled for October 23 and 24, mark the return of international hockey to the capital after a decade.
India, now a two-time Olympic medalist and ranked fifth in the world, will face a formidable challenge in Germany, who finished second at the recent World Cup in Paris and are ranked second in the global standings. The series promises to be a close contest, with both teams boasting talented and experienced players.
Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh will lead the charge, with Vivek Sagar Prasad serving as his deputy. Youngsters Rajinder Singh and Aditya Lalage are set to make their international debuts, while defender and drag-flicker Varun Kumar returns to national duty after a long break.
Coach Craig Fulton expressed his excitement about the upcoming matches, noting the significance of playing at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, where Indian hockey experienced a resurgence 14 years ago. He acknowledged the team’s injury concerns but emphasized the opportunity for young players to prove themselves.
“It’s unfortunate to have injuries, but it’s also an exciting chance to test against the No. 2 in the world,” Fulton said. “From now till the World Cup and then on to LA28, the selections will again open up chances for the guys to prove themselves.”
Germany, meanwhile, will field a mix of experienced and up-and-coming players. While some members of their World Cup squad are absent, the team includes several players from their Under-21 World Championship-winning side.
The series is expected to provide valuable preparation for both teams ahead of the upcoming World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. India will be eager to continue their recent success, while Germany will aim to prove their status as one of the world’s top hockey nations.
