Hockey India backs coach Craig Fulton until Asian Games 2026
Hockey India (HI) president Dilip Tirkey has stated that the men’s team coach, Craig Fulton, has the organisation’s full support at least until the 2026 Asian Games. This statement was made on Sunday ahead of India’s Asia Cup 2025 final against South Korea at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
“The coach has our full support until the World Cup and Asian Games in 2026,” Tirkey told the media before the virtual World Cup qualifying match. “He has done an excellent job since he took charge. Apart from the Pro League (2024-25), the team has played well. Even there, he was giving youngsters a chance and experimenting with new tactics.”
Focus on young talent and player selection
Tirkey echoed the sentiments of selection committee chairman RP Singh regarding the inclusion of senior players in the next Olympic cycle. “We have asked selectors to keep an eye on senior players who are not performing well,” he explained. “We have a good pool of young talent, and they also need time and exposure to big tournaments to develop.”
He added that for the two major events next year, the best team will be selected, and if current players are underperforming, others will be given a chance.
Upcoming events
Regarding the Junior World Cup 2025, Tirkey mentioned that the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has yet to submit its longlist of players. India is hosting the 14th edition of the men’s Under-21 world championship in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10, with a record 24 nations participating.
Tirkey also addressed reports that several foreign federations are hesitant to release players for the Hockey India League (HIL), scheduled to begin in January 2026. He clarified that countries with World Cup qualifiers around February-March are reluctant to send their players as they prioritise their national teams’ interests.
Published on Sep 07, 2025