'Every team is here to win': India hockey skipper Harmanpreet ahead of Asian Champions Trophy

Indian men's hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh has warned against complacency ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy 2026, insisting that every participating nation is capable of winning the tournament as the defending champions prepare to begin their campaign against Bangladesh in Jalandhar on Tuesday.

India will enter the six-nation competition as five-time champions and recent Asian Games gold medallists. However, Harmanpreet maintained that past achievements would count for little unless the team approached every match with the same intensity and determination.

"Every team is here to compete and win the tournament. All the teams are strong, and we do not want to take any opponent lightly. Everyone has come here to give their best," Harmanpreet said ahead of the tournament.

The Indian skipper also highlighted the team's growing experience and maturity, saying the players understood the importance of respecting every opponent irrespective of rankings or previous results.

"We have gained a lot of experience and matured as a team. We will approach every match with the same mindset and give every opponent the respect they deserve," he added.

India eye sixth title

India are the most successful team in the history of the Asian Champions Trophy, having won the competition in 2011, 2016, 2018, 2023 and 2024.

The Harmanpreet-led side will be aiming for a sixth crown and a third consecutive title after winning the previous two editions in Chennai and Hulunbuir, China.

India defeated China 1-0 in the 2024 final, with Jugraj Singh scoring the decisive goal. The team will now look to extend its dominance in the continental competition while playing before home supporters.

The upcoming tournament also provides India with an opportunity to build on their recent success at the Asian Games in Japan, where they successfully defended their gold medal.

Under head coach Craig Fulton, India have retained much of the squad that secured the Asian Games title, maintaining continuity while providing opportunities to younger players.

Hockey returns to Punjab

The ninth edition of the Asian Champions Trophy will mark the return of international hockey to Punjab after 17 years.

Jalandhar's Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium will host the opening ceremony and all league-stage matches from October 27 to November 2.

The semi-finals will take place on November 4 at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali, which will also host the bronze-medal playoff and final on November 5.

The tournament carries particular significance for Punjab, which has produced several generations of Indian hockey players, including Olympic medallists and former national captains.

Harmanpreet and several of his teammates hail from Punjab, making the opportunity to represent India before their home supporters especially meaningful.

Hockey India has announced free entry for spectators at both venues to encourage greater public participation and support for the tournament.

Manpreet ruled out

India suffered a setback ahead of the competition after experienced midfielder and former captain Manpreet Singh was ruled out with a calf injury sustained during training.

Manpreet, one of the most experienced members of the squad, has been replaced by midfielder Vivek Sagar Prasad.

The team will nevertheless feature several established players, including Harmanpreet, Hardik Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh and Mandeep Singh.

Goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak has also returned to the squad, while young defender Amandeep Lakra and midfielder Aditya Arjun Lalage have been included.

The selection reflects the coaching staff's effort to maintain a balance between experienced internationals and emerging talent.

Tough competition expected

India will face Bangladesh in their opening match on October 27 before taking on China on October 29 and Japan on October 30.

The hosts will subsequently meet Malaysia on November 1 and South Korea on November 2.

Malaysia, who finished runners-up to India at the recent Asian Games, are expected to provide a significant challenge. South Korea and Japan will also be seeking strong performances in the continental competition.

The six participating teams will compete in a single round-robin format, with each side playing five league matches. The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals.

Bangladesh, China, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea complete the field alongside hosts India.

The tournament will begin with Malaysia facing China, followed by Japan taking on South Korea, before India meet Bangladesh in the evening fixture.

Home support a major boost

Head coach Craig Fulton has expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of playing international hockey in Punjab, describing the home atmosphere as an important source of motivation for the squad.

The South African coach believes the combination of experienced players and emerging talent will help India compete strongly against the leading Asian teams.

The tournament will also provide an opportunity to assess the squad's development as India continue preparations for future international assignments, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

For Harmanpreet, however, the immediate focus remains on the opening match against Bangladesh and maintaining consistency throughout the competition.

With India seeking another continental title and international hockey returning to one of the country's traditional sporting centres, the defending champions will look to make a strong start before their home supporters on Tuesday.