Sports Ministry Advocates for Separate Teams for Asian Games and World Cup in Hockey
Two teams should go: Ministry view on Asian Games vs World Cup in hockey
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Sports Ministry of India recommends that Hockey India nominate distinct teams for the Asian Games and the World Cup to prevent player burnout. While the World Cup is scheduled from August 15 to 30 in Belgium and the Netherlands, the Asian Games will take place from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
- 01The Sports Ministry suggests Hockey India should field separate teams for the Asian Games and World Cup.
- 02The Asian Games serve as an Olympic qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
- 03Coaches Craig Fulton and Sjoerd Marijne prefer sending the same teams to both events.
- 04Hockey India has not yet finalized its squads for the two tournaments.
- 05Concerns about player burnout have been raised due to the proximity of the two major events.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Sports Ministry of India has urged Hockey India to send distinct teams for the upcoming Asian Games and World Cup to mitigate player burnout. The World Cup is set to occur from August 15 to 30 in Belgium and the Netherlands, while the Asian Games will run from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Although these events do not overlap, the short turnaround time for players is a significant concern. Coaches Craig Fulton (men's team) and Sjoerd Marijne (women's team) prefer to field the same squads for both tournaments. The ministry emphasizes the need for a competitive B team, given the wealth of talent available in Indian hockey. Winning gold in both competitions will secure spots for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Hockey India has yet to finalize its teams, with Secretary General Bholanath Singh indicating that all factors are being considered.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The decision on team selection will significantly affect player health and performance in international competitions.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Should Hockey India send separate teams for the Asian Games and World Cup?
Connecting to poll...
More about Hockey India
India's Women's Hockey Team Faces Argentina with Savita Back but Salima Out
Hindustan Times • Apr 12, 2026
Punjab Launches Major Solar Street Lighting Initiative and Hosts Men's Asian Champions Trophy 2026
The Indian Express • Apr 12, 2026
Punjab Cabinet Approves Life Imprisonment for Sacrilege Against Sri Guru Granth Sahib
Hindustan Times • Apr 11, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.