The year 2025 has been a mixed bag for Indian hockey, marked by both significant achievements and persistent concerns. While the men's team celebrated a resounding victory at the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, this triumph masks deeper structural issues and inconsistencies that continue to plague the sport in the country.
India's Asia Cup win was a dominant performance, with the team defeating defending champions South Korea 4-1 in the final. Dilpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, and Amit Rohidas were among the key players who shone throughout the tournament. This victory not only ended an eight-year title drought but also secured India's place in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, to be co-hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium. The team displayed remarkable improvement in their final matches, scoring 15 goals while conceding only two. Statistically, India has won 52 out of 70 Asia Cup matches, holding the record for the most wins and the best winning percentage in the competition.
However, the Asia Cup success needs to be viewed in the context of the team's overall performance throughout the year. The FIH Pro League 2024-25 was a major disappointment, with India finishing eighth out of nine teams and narrowly avoiding relegation. Despite a strong showing in the home leg with five wins in Bhubaneswar, the team suffered a series of seven consecutive losses in Europe. This inconsistency raises questions about the team's ability to perform under pressure and maintain momentum against top-tier opponents.
Adding to the complexity, the Indian women's hockey team faced a particularly challenging year. They were relegated to the FIH Nations Cup after finishing last in the Pro League, winning only two matches and losing 11. The team also failed to secure a direct qualification for the World Cup after losing to China in the Asia Cup final. Veteran player Vandana Katariya's retirement further underscored the loss of depth and experience within the squad. Allegations of outdated coaching styles and even misconduct within the junior team's coaching staff added to the turmoil.
Despite these challenges, there were also encouraging signs of progress. A second-string men's team secured a silver medal at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, showcasing the competitive depth within the squad. The junior men's team also impressed, reaching the semi-finals of the FIH Junior World Cup. These performances suggest that there is a pool of talent that can be nurtured and developed for the future.
Looking ahead, the Indian men's hockey team faces a packed international calendar, with the World Cup and Asian Games being the major events in 2026. Captain Harmanpreet Singh has emphasized the importance of workload management and preparation for these crucial tournaments. The team will also participate in the FIH Pro League 2025-26, with matches against top teams like Belgium and Pakistan.
The challenge for Indian hockey lies in addressing the inconsistencies and structural issues that persist despite the Asia Cup victory. While the win provides a morale boost and secures a spot in the World Cup, sustained success will require a more holistic approach. This includes strengthening the domestic leagues, improving coaching standards, and providing consistent support and resources for both the men's and women's teams. Only then can Indian hockey truly realize its potential and consistently compete at the highest level.
