Rourkela: The Indian men’s hockey team delivered a highly disappointing performance in the Rourkela leg of the FIH Pro League, falling well short of expectations despite strong home support.
After winning bronze medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021) and the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Indian hockey had pushed up expectations significantly.
However, in the matches played from February 10 to 15 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, India went down in all their four encounters.
India lost 1-3 and 2-4 to Belgium, and 0-8 and 2-4 to Argentina. The eight-goal drubbing against Argentina, in particular, raised serious questions about the team. Not since the 2010 Commonwealth Games hockey final did India suffer such a humiliation, having conceded eight against Australia on that day at Delhi’s Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
Last year, India finished eighth among nine teams in the Pro League standings. A better showing was expected on home turf this time. But more than the defeats, it was the manner of the losses that disappointed fans in Rourkela. The team appeared to struggle with coordination and rhythm throughout their four matches.
The biggest weakness was in defence. Opponents repeatedly breached India’s backline through swift counter-attacks and precise passing. Out of the total 240 minutes of game time in four matches, India showed glimpses of quality for barely 30-40 minutes. The team managed to score only five goals, and conceded 19.
On a positive note, forward Aditya Lalage and midfielder Hardik Singh stood out with commendable performances. Vice-captain Hardik displayed tremendous energy but received little support from teammates. Captain Harmanpreet Singh looked out of form and even missed a penalty stroke against Argentina. Senior players like Amit Rohidas, Mandeep Singh and Abhishek failed to make the expected impact. The absence of goalkeeper P R Sreejesh, who retired in August 2024, was clearly felt under the bar.
The defeats on soil serve as a warning sign for head coach Craig Fulton. There is an urgent need to reassess team selection, fitness levels, mental toughness and defensive structure. Greater attention must also be paid to penalty corner strategy and the balanced integration of young players.
The road ahead is not easy. The Indian team will next tour Hobart, in Australia, where they will face Spain and Australia. In June, India will take on the Netherlands, Germany, England and Pakistan during the European leg.
It will be the first ever Pro League clash between India and Pakistan.
After four matches, India are yet to earn a point, and placed eighth. Pakistan, having lost eight matches, stand ninth.
A positive takeaway from Odisha’s perspective was the graduation of two junior players — Amandeep Lakra and Roshan Kujur — in the senior team.
Despite the defeats, the strong turnout of spectators once again proved why Sundargarh district is regarded as the cradle of Indian hockey.
However, there is room for improvement in ticket distribution. Had tickets been made directly available to genuine hockey enthusiasts, attendance could have been even higher. Hockey India and the state government should consider reviewing the system.
Although the Rourkela leg has been disappointing, with proper analysis and corrective measures, the Indian team is capable of making a strong comeback. The focus now shifts to how effectively the team responds to this challenge.
