Indian Men's Hockey Coach Craig Fulton Optimistic After National Championship, Eyes Core Team for Asia Cup 2025

• Apr 22, 2025

New Delhi [India], April 19 (ANI) – Following the conclusion of the 15th Hockey India Senior Men’s National Championship 2025 held in Jhansi, Indian Men's Hockey Team Chief Coach Craig Fulton shared a positive outlook on the depth of talent showcased, as preparations begin for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

Fulton, who closely tracked the championship, praised the level of competition, particularly during high-stakes matchups between top-tier teams. “When we put strength against strength, the matches were very, very close,” he said. “There’s good depth—especially in goalkeeping and overall across the board—which was great to witness. It was also encouraging to see fresh faces who haven’t featured in the league before.”

Reflecting on regional team performances, Fulton noted that while Punjab emerged as the winner, benefiting from a strong pool of international players, the overall quality among the top four teams remained balanced. “Some regions were stronger than others. Punjab, with the highest number of internationals, had an advantage. That said, the top four teams displayed a healthy mix of talent. Beyond them, however, there was a noticeable dip in depth and quality,” he explained, as per a Hockey India press release.

Looking ahead, Fulton stressed that building the right squad for the Asia Cup is not just about bringing in younger players, but about selecting the best fit for each role. “It’s not about adding more youth—it’s about identifying the right players for the right positions,” he said.

A national training camp featuring 54 probables is set to begin soon, from which a core group of 40 players will be shortlisted. “We’ve been focusing on creating depth for some time now. The next 18 months are going to be critical in developing a squad with strong bench strength,” Fulton said.

The coach also shed light on the selection criteria used during scouting. “We looked at individual performances, but also assessed how players functioned within their team’s tactical setup. Defence was a major focus—both individual and team-based,” he stated.

Fulton also addressed some of the areas needing improvement, particularly in converting field goals and adapting to diverse tactical situations. “We want players who can move the ball effectively against man-to-man and zonal defences, press with intelligence, and manage outlets under pressure,” he noted.

Highlighting the essential traits for national selection, Fulton emphasised physicality and tactical intelligence. “We’re not just seeking versatility—it’s more about athleticism, awareness, and the ability to quickly absorb new systems and tactics,” he added.

With veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh set to retire after the Paris Olympics, Fulton confirmed that the core team structure will largely remain unchanged. The focus, he said, is now on adding depth and strategic flexibility to sustain strong performances through the Asia Cup and into future international tournaments.