In a reflective assessment of Indian hockey, former India captain Ashok Kumar has stated that the era of artistic hockey, characterized by wrist-based skills, has largely faded, giving way to a power-driven game that demands considerable financial investment.
Speaking to the media in Kota, Rajasthan, at the Sangram Singh Hockey Cup, Ashok Kumar, an Arjuna Awardee and son of hockey legend Dhyan Chand, lamented the shift in the sport's dynamics. "It was an era of classical, artistic hockey, played with the wrists," he said. "Today's hockey is played with the shoulders. We call it power hockey, and it has become a game where everything involved is very costly". He highlighted that while cricket still allows youngsters to play with just a bat, ball, and stumps, modern hockey necessitates astroturf facilities, which are becoming increasingly scarce in cities and colleges.
The transition to astroturf has undeniably altered the game. Ashok Kumar, a member of the 1975 Hockey World Cup-winning team, urged state and Union governments to invest in astroturf and synthetic grounds in every district to revitalize hockey at the grassroots level. He also emphasized the importance of administrators and stakeholders in preserving local clubs and tournaments, which have historically been crucial in nurturing talent throughout the country.
According to NDTV sports, Kumar expressed satisfaction with the Sangram Singh Hockey Cup's 29th edition, noting that such competitions are essential for the sport's survival. He recalled his time in Kota, emphasizing the city's significant role in his hockey journey by providing opportunities through various clubs. "Hockey is our heritage," he declared. "India is the only country to have won eight Olympic gold medals, along with four bronze and one silver. Small tournaments are what produce great players, and we need to promote them".
The Indian men's national field hockey team has a rich history, winning its first Olympic gold medal in 1928 and remaining unbeaten until 1960, securing six consecutive gold medals. In 1975, India also won the World Cup. The team's recent achievements include winning bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, a historic win after 41 years, and securing the 2025 Asia Cup in Rajgir.
However, the increasing costs associated with hockey are raising concerns about accessibility. While recreational hockey might cost around $3,000 annually, competitive hockey can range from $3,000 to $15,000 per year just for league fees, excluding equipment, travel, and other associated costs. Some families spend between $35,000 and $45,000 yearly on their teenage sons' hockey. Ice time alone can cost around $500 per hour, and tournament fees are rising, placing a significant financial burden on families.
Despite heavy investment in infrastructure, foreign coaching, sports science, and centralized planning, India faces challenges in maintaining consistency against top-tier opponents. As India enters the LA 2028 Olympic cycle, strategic planning, sustained performance, and consistency are crucial for Olympic qualification. While India has multiple pathways to secure a berth, including the FIH Pro League, Asian Games, and FIH Olympic Qualification Tournament, each presents distinct challenges.
