The iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar is set to witness thrilling international hockey action as the Indian men’s and women’s teams kick off their home leg of the 2024/25 FIH Pro League. Fresh off the conclusion of the high-octane Hockey India League, the national teams will now test their mettle against formidable opponents in this prestigious global tournament.
Stiff Competition Awaits India
The Indian teams will face no easy task in the Pro League, with the women’s side squaring off against England, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands in two-legged encounters. Meanwhile, the men’s team will lock horns with Spain, Germany, England, and Ireland. As the top-tier championship featuring the world’s best nine hockey nations, the FIH Pro League promises intense battles and spectacular displays of skill.
Women’s Team: Harendra’s Experienced Lineup
Under the guidance of head coach Harendra Singh, the Indian women’s team boasts a seasoned squad led by the dynamic Salima Tete. The return of veteran forward Vandana Katariya bolsters the attacking lineup, while standout performers from the Hockey India League like Rutaja Pisal and Sonam have earned their spots in the national colors. However, the team’s recurring struggle to convert goal-scoring opportunities against higher-ranked European sides remains a concern. Addressing penalty corner woes will be crucial, with Deepika and Manisha Chauhan shouldering the responsibility of dragflicking duties.
The issue with the team, which is a recurring theme, is scoring goals. They did score plenty of goals in Rajgir but India struggled to convert their chances against bigger European teams.
– ESPN
Men’s Team: Fulton’s Philosophy and Fresh Faces
Craig Fulton, the men’s team head coach, has infused his squad with exciting young talent that shone during the Hockey India League. Names like Arshdeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Boby Dhami Singh, Angad Bir Singh, Rajinder Singh, and Yashdeep Siwach have earned their spots alongside seasoned campaigners. As these youngsters adapt to Fulton’s “defend to win” philosophy, emphasizing control, discipline, and counter-attacking play, their ability to make a smooth transition will be vital to the team’s success.
I think we have a philosophy of playing. It’s ‘defend to win’ and then we really need to get back on the same page. We really need to think as an Indian outfit, not as eight, seven, eight different franchises.
– Craig Fulton
In the goalkeeping department, Krishan Pathak’s form will be under scrutiny after an ordinary showing in the HIL. With Suraj Karkera and Princedeep Singh vying for opportunities, the competition for the starting spot between the posts is set to intensify.
The Road Ahead
As the Indian teams embark on their FIH Pro League journey, the stakes are high. With World Cup spots on the line and the chance to prove their mettle against the best in the business, both the men’s and women’s sides will be determined to make a statement on home turf. The Kalinga Stadium, a iconic venue that has witnessed many glorious chapters in Indian hockey, is ready to provide the perfect backdrop for another enthralling saga. As the whistle blows and the action unfolds, the hockey-loving nation will once again rally behind its beloved teams, dreaming of glory and hoping for a triumphant campaign in the FIH Pro League.
