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6 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
4 min
SportsNEWS

Hockey India announces 24-member squad for FIH Pro League

India names young squad for FIH Pro League's home leg.

Hockey India announces 24-member squad for FIH Pro League

Photo by Abhishek Shintre

Hockey India has announced a 24-member squad for the upcoming home leg of the FIH Pro League. The squad includes several young players, marking the season-opening competition for the Indian men's hockey team. The Rourkela leg is scheduled from February 10-15, 2026, with Argentina and Belgium as the other participating teams.

Pawan Malik gets a chance as goalkeeper, while Amandeep Lakra earns a call-up after performing well in the Hockey India League. Rosan Kujur and Manmeet Singh, who were part of the Junior World Cup bronze-winning team, are also included.

Key Facts

1.

Hockey India announced a 24-member squad for the upcoming home leg of the FIH Pro League.

2.

The Rourkela leg is scheduled from February 10-15, 2026.

3.

Argentina and Belgium are the other participating teams.

4.

Pawan Malik gets a chance as goalkeeper.

5.

Amandeep Lakra earns a call-up after performing well in the Hockey India League.

6.

Rosan Kujur and Manmeet Singh, who were part of the side that won bronze at the recent Junior World Cup, are also included.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Sports-related developments and policies

2.

Connects to the syllabus on international organizations and sports governance

3.

Potential question types: Statement-based, match the following (sports bodies and their functions)

Visual Insights

FIH Pro League 2026: Rourkela Leg

Map showing Rourkela, India, the venue for the FIH Pro League 2026 home leg, along with Argentina and Belgium, the participating teams.

Loading interactive map...

📍Rourkela📍Argentina📍Belgium
More Information

Background

The FIH Pro League is a global league featuring the world's top hockey nations. It was created by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to provide more meaningful and regular competition for national teams. The league aims to increase the profile of hockey and generate more revenue for the sport. Prior to the Pro League, international hockey relied heavily on major tournaments like the Olympics and World Cup. The Pro League provides a consistent schedule of high-level matches throughout the year. This helps in the development of players and provides more opportunities for fans to engage with the sport. The league also impacts the FIH World Rankings, influencing tournament qualification. The FIH, as the governing body, is responsible for setting the rules and regulations of hockey. It also promotes the sport globally through various development programs. The FIH works with national associations to grow the game at the grassroots level. This includes providing coaching education and supporting the development of infrastructure. The Olympic Charter also plays a role in governing the participation of hockey in the Olympic Games. India has a rich history in hockey, winning multiple Olympic gold medals. However, in recent decades, India has faced challenges in maintaining its dominance. The Pro League provides an opportunity for India to compete regularly against the world's best teams. This exposure is crucial for improving the team's performance and regaining its position as a top hockey nation.

Latest Developments

Hockey India is the governing body for hockey in India. It is responsible for selecting the national teams and organizing domestic tournaments. Hockey India has been working to improve the infrastructure for hockey in the country. This includes building new stadiums and upgrading existing facilities. The organization also focuses on developing talent at the grassroots level through various programs. The inclusion of young players in the FIH Pro League squad reflects a focus on building for the future. This provides valuable experience to these players as they compete against top international teams. The performance of these young players will be crucial for India's success in upcoming major tournaments. This strategy aligns with the broader goals of the National Sports Policy, which emphasizes talent identification and development. The FIH Pro League is an important platform for India to prepare for major tournaments like the Olympics and the World Cup. Regular competition against top teams helps in identifying areas for improvement. The league also provides an opportunity to experiment with different strategies and team combinations. The upcoming home leg in Rourkela is particularly important for India to gain momentum and build confidence. The success in this league can significantly impact India's sports diplomacy and international standing. Looking ahead, Hockey India aims to continue developing young talent and improving the overall standard of hockey in the country. This includes investing in coaching education and providing better facilities for players. The organization also plans to host more major international tournaments in India. This will help in promoting the sport and generating more interest among the public.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts about the FIH Pro League squad announcement that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

For the UPSC Prelims, remember these key facts: Hockey India announced a 24-member squad for the FIH Pro League home leg. The Rourkela leg is scheduled for February 10-15, 2026, with Argentina and Belgium as the other participating teams. Note the inclusion of young players like Pawan Malik, Amandeep Lakra, Rosan Kujur, and Manmeet Singh.

Exam Tip

Focus on the dates, participating countries, and names of new players included in the squad. These are common areas for factual questions in Prelims.

2. What is the FIH Pro League and why is it important for Indian hockey?

The FIH Pro League is a global hockey league created by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). It provides regular competition for top national teams, aiming to raise hockey's profile and revenue. For Indian hockey, it offers crucial exposure and competitive experience for both established and emerging players, contributing to the team's overall development and performance on the international stage.

3. How might the inclusion of young players in the FIH Pro League squad impact the Indian team's performance and future prospects?

Including young players provides them with valuable international exposure and experience, which can improve their skills and confidence. It also injects fresh energy and perspectives into the team. While there might be initial challenges in terms of consistency, this investment in youth development can lead to long-term success and a stronger team in the future.

4. Why is the FIH Pro League squad announcement in the news recently?

The FIH Pro League squad announcement is in the news because it marks the beginning of the season-opening competition for the Indian men's hockey team. The inclusion of several young players, along with the return of established players, has generated interest and discussion among hockey fans and analysts.

5. What is Hockey India's role in the context of the FIH Pro League and the development of hockey in India?

Hockey India is the governing body for hockey in India. As per the topic data, it is responsible for selecting the national teams, organizing domestic tournaments, improving infrastructure, and developing talent at the grassroots level. Its role is crucial in preparing the team for competitions like the FIH Pro League and ensuring the long-term growth of the sport in the country.

6. What are the important dates to remember regarding the FIH Pro League 2026 for the UPSC exam?

The most important date to remember is February 10-15, 2026, which is when the Rourkela leg of the FIH Pro League is scheduled to take place. This is a factual detail that could be tested in the exam.

Exam Tip

Create a timeline of important sports events to help you remember key dates for the UPSC exam.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the FIH Pro League: 1. It is organized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). 2. The league aims to provide regular competition for national hockey teams. 3. The Rourkela leg of the FIH Pro League 2026 will feature Argentina and Belgium. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The FIH Pro League is organized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), not the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Statement 2 is CORRECT: The FIH Pro League aims to provide regular competition for national hockey teams, enhancing their development and providing more opportunities for fans. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The Rourkela leg of the FIH Pro League 2026 will feature Argentina and Belgium as participating teams, as mentioned in the news summary.

2. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding Hockey India? A) It is the governing body for hockey in India. B) It is responsible for selecting the national hockey teams. C) It organizes domestic hockey tournaments in India. D) It is funded by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

  • A.It is the governing body for hockey in India.
  • B.It is responsible for selecting the national hockey teams.
  • C.It organizes domestic hockey tournaments in India.
  • D.It is funded by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
Show Answer

Answer: D

Options A, B, and C are correct statements about Hockey India. Hockey India is the governing body, selects national teams, and organizes domestic tournaments. Option D is INCORRECT: Hockey India is primarily funded by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, not the Ministry of Culture.

3. Consider the following players mentioned in the news regarding the FIH Pro League squad: 1. Pawan Malik 2. Amandeep Lakra 3. Rosan Kujur Which of the players mentioned above have been included in the squad for the FIH Pro League 2026?

  • A.1 only
  • B.1 and 2 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three players, Pawan Malik, Amandeep Lakra, and Rosan Kujur, have been included in the 24-member squad for the FIH Pro League 2026, as per the news summary. Pawan Malik gets a chance as goalkeeper, Amandeep Lakra earns a call-up after performing well in the Hockey India League, and Rosan Kujur was part of the Junior World Cup bronze-winning team.

Source Articles

Hockey India names 24-member squad for Pro League - The Hindu

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