India’s rising stars Mohith HS, Yashdeep Siwach, Rajinder Singh, and Aditya Arjun Lalage are set to strengthen India’s campaign at the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2026 as the team aims to end a 51-year title drought with a balanced squad.
With the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2026 fast approaching, the Indian men’s hockey team is entering the prestigious tournament with renewed confidence, youthful energy, and a strong determination to reclaim world glory. Scheduled to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands, the tournament presents a golden opportunity for India to end its 51-year wait for another World Cup title.
The 20-member Indian squad reflects a perfect blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents who have impressed through consistent performances over the past season. Among the young players expected to make a significant impact are goalkeeper Mohith HS, defender Yashdeep Siwach, and midfielders Rajinder Singh and Aditya Arjun Lalage, each eager to prove themselves on hockey’s biggest stage.
Twenty-three-year-old attacking midfielder Aditya Arjun Lalage described his selection for the World Cup squad as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. Known for his speed, creativity, and attacking instincts, Lalage said representing India at the World Cup has always been his ambition.
He stated that his current focus is on giving his absolute best during every training session and every match while contributing to the team’s success in whichever role he is assigned. Lalage also praised the support received from the senior players and coaching staff, saying their guidance has boosted his confidence and helped him improve every aspect of his game.
Another promising midfielder, Rajinder Singh, believes the team’s unity is one of its biggest strengths. The energetic 23-year-old highlighted the strong understanding among teammates both on and off the field, saying constant communication and mutual trust enable players to support one another throughout the game.
Rajinder noted that every player is willing to work for the team, and when mistakes occur, teammates are always ready to step in and provide support. According to him, this collective spirit could prove vital during the high-pressure World Cup matches.
At the back, defender Yashdeep Siwach has been focused on India’s intensive preparations leading into the tournament. The 25-year-old revealed that every training camp has been physically and mentally demanding, with special emphasis placed on fitness, technical improvement, tactical discipline, and teamwork.
Siwach credited senior defenders and captain Harmanpreet Singh, along with Jarmanpreet Singh and Amit Rohidas, for mentoring him and helping him develop confidence in handling defensive responsibilities. He said the experienced players have consistently shared valuable insights, ensuring that younger members of the squad are fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Mohith HS is preparing for the biggest tournament of his career. Reflecting on the previous World Cup, Mohith recalled watching the event from the junior national camp in Bengaluru while dreaming of representing India on the world stage.
Now included in the senior squad, the talented goalkeeper believes he has matured considerably, both technically and physically, since his junior days. He acknowledged the valuable lessons learned from coaches and senior players, particularly in improving match awareness and preparing for crucial situations such as penalty shootouts.
Mohith also emphasised that India’s balanced combination of experienced stars and ambitious youngsters gives the team confidence heading into the tournament.
India have been placed in Pool D and will begin their FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2026 campaign against Wales on 15 August. They will then face England on 17 August before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan on 19 August in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated encounters.
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With experienced leaders guiding an exciting new generation of players, India hopes its rising stars will shine brightly on the global stage and help bring the coveted World Cup trophy back home after more than five decades.
