Daijiworld Media Network – Amstelveen

Amstelveen, Jun 6: As the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 kicks off, Indian men's hockey team head coach Craig Fulton has underlined the importance of a strong finish to enhance India's chances of qualifying directly for the 2026 World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Currently third on the points table with 15 points from eight matches, India trail behind England and Belgium. However, with both Belgium and the Netherlands already qualified as hosts, a podium finish in the Pro League could secure India's entry into the prestigious tournament.

“This is clearly one of the pathways to qualify for the World Cup,” said Fulton in a virtual media interaction on Friday. “We’ve prepared well and want to finish as high as possible. If not, we still have the Asia Cup in August in Bihar as a backup route, but our focus is very much on performing here.”

India begin their European campaign against the Netherlands on Saturday and Monday at the iconic Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen, followed by back-to-back matches against Argentina on June 11 and 12. The squad will then travel to Antwerp, Belgium, to face Australia on June 14 and 15, before wrapping up with two vital fixtures against hosts Belgium on June 21 and 22.

The tight schedule six matches in nine days poses a significant challenge, but Fulton is confident in his squad's fitness. “We’ve geared all our training around coping with the physical load of this tour. The team is in good shape and ready to take on the world’s best,” he stated.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh, who returns to full fitness after struggling with wrist and ankle injuries, is also upbeat. “The rehab in Bengaluru was intense but successful. I’ve trained with the team, had additional sessions, and feel fit and strong. We are ready to give it our best shot,” he said.

With World Cup qualification on the line and momentum building, the upcoming matches in Europe promise to be a true test of India’s grit and ambition on the global hockey stage.