Harmanpreet Singh and Craig Fulton aim for a third consecutive crown; Malaysia and Japan emerge as key challengers
New Delhi: India will begin its campaign in the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026 with the objective of securing a record-extending sixth title. Led by captain Harmanpreet Singh and chief coach Craig Fulton, the defending champions will look to win the tournament for the third consecutive time.
India has won the title five times—in 2011, 2016, 2018, 2023 and 2025. Its 2018 triumph was shared with Pakistan after the final in Muscat, Oman, was abandoned due to rain. Pakistan, a three-time champion, withdrew from the tournament, paving the way for Bangladesh to enter the competition.
India defeated China 1-0 in the 2025 final, with Jugraj Singh scoring the decisive goal. The team will face its strongest challenges from Malaysia and Japan, having recently defeated Malaysia 5-1 in the Asian Games final to retain its gold medal.
However, India suffered a setback ahead of the tournament as experienced midfielder Manpreet Singh was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Vivek Sagar Prasad will take his place. Goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak has returned to the squad, while midfielder Aditya Arjun Lalage and drag-flicker Amandeep Lakra have also made comebacks.
Harmanpreet said every team would be competing to win and stressed that India would respect all opponents. He expressed confidence in the experience and maturity of his squad.
The tournament could also mark a transition phase for Indian hockey, with questions surrounding the future of several senior players as the team management looks towards building a squad for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
India will open its campaign against Bangladesh on October 27 in Jalandhar. The team will then face China on October 29, Japan on October 30, Malaysia on November 1 and South Korea on November 2. All India’s league matches are scheduled to begin at 7 pm.
Six teams—India, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, China and Bangladesh—will compete in a round-robin league from October 27 to November 2. The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals, scheduled for November 4 in Mohali. The final and third-place match will be played on November 5.
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