Get ready for a thrilling comeback! After a six-year hiatus, India’s men’s hockey team is set to return to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025, and fans are buzzing with excitement. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: this five-time champion squad is stepping back onto the turf in Ipoh, Malaysia, from November 23 to 30, aiming to reclaim their glory. And this is the part most people miss—this tournament isn’t just about hockey; it’s a celebration of legacy, named after Malaysia’s former FIH executive board member, Sultan Azlan Shah, and now in its 31st edition.
Organized by the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) and sanctioned by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), this invitational tournament has been a staple on the global hockey calendar since 1983. This year, six teams from three confederations will battle it out in a round-robin format, with the top two advancing to the final on November 30. Classification matches will determine the rankings of the remaining teams, ensuring every game counts.
India’s journey won’t be easy, as they face stiff competition from powerhouses like three-time champions Republic of Korea, world No. 3 Belgium, two-time winners New Zealand, and hosts Malaysia. Canada completes the lineup, adding an element of unpredictability. India’s opener against South Korea on November 23 will be a litmus test, with captain Sanjay leading a squad packed with experience—think Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas, Nilakanta Sharma, and Vivek Sagar Prasad.
But here’s the controversial part: While India is the second-most successful team in the tournament’s history with five titles, their last win dates back to 2010. Can they break the drought, or will another team rise to the occasion? Notably, Australia, the most successful team with 10 titles, is absent this year, as is Japan, the reigning champions from 2024. Does this open the door for a new era of dominance, or will tradition prevail?
For Indian fans, here’s how to catch the action: The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 will be live-streamed exclusively on the FanCode app and website. Yes, you read that right—there will be no live telecast on any TV channel in India, making this a digital-only event. Mark your calendars for these key matches (all times in IST):
- November 23: India vs South Korea (1:30 PM), New Zealand vs Malaysia (3:30 PM), Belgium vs Canada (5:30 PM)
- November 24: South Korea vs New Zealand (1:30 PM), Belgium vs India (3:30 PM), Malaysia vs Canada (5:30 PM)
- November 26: Canada vs New Zealand (1:30 PM), South Korea vs Belgium (3:30 PM), India vs Malaysia (5:30 PM)
- November 27: South Korea vs Canada (1:30 PM), India vs New Zealand (3:30 PM), Malaysia vs Belgium (5:30 PM)
- November 29: Canada vs India (1:30 PM), New Zealand vs Belgium (3:30 PM), Malaysia vs South Korea (5:30 PM)
- November 30: Classification matches (1:30 PM and 3:45 PM), followed by the Final at 6:00 PM.
India’s squad is a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Goalkeepers Pawan and Mohith Honnenahalli Shashikumar guard the post, while defenders like Chandura Boby and Sanjay fortify the backline. Midfielders Nilakanta Sharma and Vivek Sagar Prasad bring creativity, and forwards Sukhjeet Singh and Dilpreet Singh aim to light up the scoreboard.
Here’s the burning question: Can India reclaim their throne, or will a new champion emerge? With Australia and Japan absent, is this India’s chance to shine, or will Belgium, Korea, or another team steal the spotlight? Let us know your predictions in the comments—this tournament promises drama, skill, and unforgettable moments!
