Akashdeep Singh: The 29-year-old is one of the senior most players in the current Indian squad. He is playing in his third world cup (2014, 2018 and 2023).

With his ability to score at the dying moments, Akashdeep has given many important wins to the country.

Since the astro-turf was introduced in the hockey world cup, till date Akashdeep with seven goals is the highest scorer from India in the mega event.  

He was dropped from the Tokyo Olympics squad, but after that he had improved more on his skills and worked on switching positions to mid-field, as per the demand of the game.

“Akashdeep will be an important player in India’s world cup campaign. His ability to score at the last moment has helped India to register a win during many important tournaments. In the 2014 Asian Games semifinals against South Korea, we were tied at two each and it was Akashdeep, who scored a goal at the last minute. Eventually, we won gold. In the 2018 Asian Games bronze medal match, he scored the winning goal. I am confident that his goal scoring ability will help India to win a medal in the World Cup,” says Sardar Singh.     

Mandeep Singh: The player from Punjab has played in194 international matches and scored 96 goals. The 27-year-old was part of the Tokyo-bound squad.

“He could be very dangerous at the opponent’s circle. If he is unable to score a goal or doesn’t get a clear chance to hit at the goalpost, he has the ability to earn a penalty corner by getting the ball touched to the opponent’s feet,” says Sardar.

Goalkeeper

PR Sreejesh: He has the longest international career in the current Indian squad. The 34-year old from Kerala made his international debut in 2006. He played an important role in India’s podium finish in Tokyo Olympics and for the year 2020-21, he was adjudged the FIH Player of the Year Award for best male goalkeeper.

“Sreejesh is the best in the world. He has the capability of singlehandedly changing the course of the game,” says Sardar Singh.