-by Pratyusha Mukherjee
With the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026 set to begin on August 15, the Indian men’s hockey team’s forward line is fine-tuning its preparations with a strong emphasis on chemistry, consistency and collective responsibility.
Experienced striker Mandeep Singh, alongside Abhishek and Shilanand Lakra, highlighted the importance of coordination, relentless preparation and teamwork as India gears up for the marquee tournament.
Preparing for his fourth FIH Hockey World Cup, Mandeep said building understanding among the forwards has been a key focus during training. Reflecting on his own journey, he noted that the guidance he received from senior players early in his career now inspires him to mentor the younger members of the squad.
“I learnt a great deal from senior players when I was starting out, and now I try to pass on those experiences to the younger forwards. We discuss handling pressure, staying calm and making the right decisions in crucial moments,” Mandeep said.
He explained that India’s attacking drills are designed to maximise efficiency inside the scoring circle.
“Our sessions are highly specific. We spend a lot of time working inside the last nine yards, improving our connections and ensuring every attack results in an outcome. We’ve also focused on receiving the final pass and converting chances,” he said.
Mandeep stressed that the role of a striker extends beyond scoring goals.
“Hockey is a team sport. The better your understanding with teammates, the more effective you become. Every time we enter the circle, our objective is to create an outcome, whether it’s a goal, a shot on target or winning a penalty corner,” he added.
Young forward Shilanand Lakra, who is set to make his World Cup debut, credited the senior players, particularly Mandeep, for helping him adapt to the demands of international hockey.
“Whenever I make mistakes, the senior players guide me on how to improve. Mandeep constantly motivates me and those conversations help me keep learning,” Lakra said.
The 27-year-old believes the responsibilities of a modern forward go beyond finishing chances.
“My focus is always on contributing to the team, whether by creating opportunities, scoring goals or making tackles. As forwards, we are also the first line of defence, and effective pressing makes the job easier for our defenders and midfielders,” he said.
Abhishek, one of India’s most consistent goal scorers in recent years, attributed his success to disciplined preparation and maintaining high standards in every aspect of his game.
“For a striker, consistency starts without the ball. Off-the-ball movement and pressing are crucial because we are the first line of defence. Once we regain possession, it’s about combining well with fellow forwards and converting opportunities into goals, shots on target or penalty corners,” he said.
He also underlined the importance of mental preparation in high-pressure situations.
“Composure inside the circle comes from training. You have to put in the hard work during practice to make the right decisions in matches. Meditation, experience and regular match exposure also help you remain calm when opportunities arise,” Abhishek said.
India have been drawn in Pool D of the FIH Hockey World Cup, alongside Wales, England and Pakistan. The team will begin its campaign against Wales on August 15, before facing England and Pakistan in the remaining group-stage fixtures.
