India's Hockey Quest: Can Sanjay Lead Team to Sultan Azlan Shah Glory?

Hockey India has announced the men's squad for the upcoming Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025. Sanjay will lead the team as captain in the prestigious tournament held in Ipoh, Malaysia. The squad includes a balanced mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards ready for the challenge. Coach Craig Fulton expressed confidence in the team's preparation and hunger to perform well in this important competition.

Key Points: Hockey India Announces Men's Squad for Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025

  • India opens tournament against Korea on November 23 in Ipoh
  • Squad features mix of experienced players and emerging talent
  • Team aims to reclaim title last won in 2010
  • Tournament serves as preparation for 2026 World Cup cycle
  • Round-robin format with top two teams reaching final
3 min read

Hockey India announces Men's squad for Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025

Hockey India names Sanjay as captain for 31st Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia. Full squad details, match schedule, and coach Craig Fulton's insights revealed.

"This group has shown great discipline and hunger in training, and we believe they are ready to take on the challenge. - Craig Fulton"

New Delhi, November 8

Hockey India on Saturday announced the Indian Men's Hockey Team for the 31st Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025, scheduled to be held in Ipoh, Malaysia, from November 23 to 30. Sanjay has been named Captain of the squad for the prestigious invitational event.

India will open their campaign against Korea on November 23, followed by Belgium on November 24. The Men in Blue will then face hosts Malaysia on November 26 and New Zealand on November 27, before concluding their league stage against Canada on November 29. The tournament will be played in a round-robin format, with the top two teams qualifying for the final on November 30, according to a press release from Hockey India.

The squad features goalkeepers Pawan and Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar, while the defensive unit comprises Poovanna Chandura Boby, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Yashdeep Siwach, Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas and Captain Sanjay. The midfield will be marshalled by Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, Vivek Sagar Prasad and Mohammed Raheel Mouseen.

Leading the attack for India will be forwards Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Selvam Karthi, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Dilpreet Singh and Abhishek. The standbys for the tournament include Varun Kumar, Vishnu Kant Singh, Hardik Singh and Angad Bir Singh.

India last captured the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup title in 2010 and finished as runners-up in 2019. With a determined squad and strong preparations, the Men in Blue will look to reclaim the coveted crown in Ipoh.

Speaking on the squad selection, Indian Men's Hockey Team Chief Coach Craig Fulton said, as quoted by the Hockey India press release, "The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has always been a key tournament in the international hockey calendar, and we are excited to participate with a balanced squad. Our focus has been on sharpening our structure in both attack and defence, improving decision-making under pressure, and maintaining consistency throughout the game. This group has shown great discipline and hunger in training, and we believe they are ready to take on the challenge. We look forward to strong performances in Ipoh and using this tournament as an important step in our long-term 2026 World Cup and Asian Games cycle."

Indian Men's squad for Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025:

Goalkeepers: Pawan and Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar.

Defenders: Chandura Boby, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Yashdeep Siwach, Sanjay, Jugraj Singh, and Amit Rohidas.

Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Nilakanta Sharma, Ravichandra Singh Moirangthem, Vivek Sagar Prasad, and Mohammed Raheel Mouseen.

Forwards: Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Selvam Karthi, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Dilpreet Singh, and Abhishek.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
Interesting squad selection. I notice Hardik Singh is only in the standby list despite his experience. Hope this doesn't affect our midfield strength against teams like Belgium.
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Priya S
Best of luck Team India! The opening match against Korea will set the tone. Let's support our boys and hope they bring glory to the nation. Jai Hind! 🙏
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Michael C
Good to see Coach Fulton's long-term vision for 2026 World Cup. This tournament is perfect for testing new combinations. The Belgium match will be the real test of our preparations.
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Ananya R
So proud to see Sanjay as captain! He has been consistent in domestic tournaments. Hope he leads from the front. All the best to the entire team! 💙
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Vikram M
The match against Malaysia in their home ground will be crucial. Our boys need to handle the pressure well. Hope the forwards deliver when it matters most.

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