Indian Hockey grows younger: Coach Craig Fulton’s vision for 2026 World Cup
With the Asian Champions Trophy gold medal still hanging around his neck and a smile that hadn't faded, Craig Fulton was already focused on the Indian hockey team’s next major challenge: the 2026 World Cup.
In those raw moments following India’s victory over China in Tuesday’s final, Fulton, the mastermind behind India’s Paris Olympic bronze, provided a glimpse into the team's immediate future—a youthful squad filled with fresh talent and upcoming matches abroad. This new journey could begin as early as late October or November, with a tour to the Netherlands and Belgium featuring a lineup predominantly composed of players under 25.
The choice of destination and age group is intentional. The European neighbors are set to host the World Cup in two years, and with an eye on both the championship and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Fulton hinted at selecting players who can endure the entire four-year cycle and beyond.
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