Team India (PTI Photo)
India have recalled goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak to their men’s hockey squad for the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, with Harmanpreet Singh set to lead the defending champions in the tournament from October 27 to November 5. Hockey India announced an 18-member squad on Tuesday, retaining the core group that clinched gold at the Asian Games in Japan, where India successfully defended their continental crown for the first time. Pathak’s return is a notable inclusion as India prepare to face Asia’s leading hockey nations on home soil.
“Playing the ACT in Punjab will be something special,” Fulton said. Young defender Amandeep Lakra and midfielder Aditya Arjun Lalage have also earned another opportunity to strengthen their positions in the senior team. Vishnu Kant Singh and Angad Bir Singh have been named as reserve players. India have opted for continuity after their recent success at the Asian Games, with captain Harmanpreet leading an experienced squad featuring key players such as Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas and Mandeep Singh. Chief coach Craig Fulton expressed his excitement about playing the tournament in Punjab, highlighting the importance of home support. “This squad blends youth with experience, and we cannot wait to feed off the home crowd. There is nothing like playing a tournament in India, and we have missed it. India, the tournament’s most successful team with five titles, will aim to defend their crown and extend their dominance in the competition.