Nearly four months after suffering one of the heaviest defeats in recent memory, the Indian men’s hockey team is attempting to turn the page and rebuild ahead of a packed international calendar that could shape its journey toward the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
The painful 0-8 loss to Argentina in a FIH Pro League match in Rourkela sparked widespread criticism and soul-searching within the team. Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey publicly questioned the attitude of some senior players, while head coach Craig Fulton called for greater accountability and honest discussions to address the shortcomings exposed by the defeat.
Results since then have done little to ease concerns. India has played six more Pro League matches, including games at home and in Australia, but is yet to register a victory in regulation time. However, behind the scenes, the focus has shifted firmly towards preparation and improvement rather than dwelling on past disappointments.
At the Sports Authority of India centre in Bengaluru, Fulton and his coaching staff have conducted a series of intensive camps designed to prepare the squad for the European leg of the Pro League, the World Cup and the Asian Games. Alongside tactical work and strength training, a renewed emphasis has been placed on nutrition and recovery.
A key addition to the support staff is nutritionist Mira Kapoor, who has introduced personalised diet plans tailored to individual workloads and physical demands. According to forward Abhishek, players are now receiving guidance based on factors such as sweat loss, training intensity and recovery requirements.
“They prepare your diet plan according to how much you sweat after training. If it is a hard session, we’ll have more carbohydrates and less proteins before training. Before a green session, our diet before training includes more protein. Personally, I really like it. Earlier, we didn’t know this,” Abhishek said.
Experienced defender Jarmanpreet Singh highlighted the scientific approach being adopted.
“How you manage your hydration. Glucose levels have been checked for certain players for two weeks, diet changes, what to eat before a certain session, we have worked a lot on this,” he explained.
The players believe the changes are already yielding positive results. Abhishek revealed he has reduced body fat and added muscle, while also noticing fewer injuries within the squad.
Beyond fitness, the team has concentrated on technical improvements. Jarmanpreet has focused on tackling and finishing attacking moves, while players have participated in individual review sessions using performance data and customised drills. Abhishek, meanwhile, has worked on his finishing inside the circle and improving coordination with fellow forwards.
Looking ahead, India’s upcoming Pro League fixtures against the Netherlands, Germany, England and Pakistan carry added significance, particularly with England and Pakistan also featuring in the team’s World Cup group later this year.
Despite the focus on the future, memories of the Argentina defeat remain fresh.
“Wo cheez abhi bhi khatak rahi hai (It still bothers us),” Abhishek admitted. “But we have to move on. Otherwise, we won’t be able to play in the future.”
For India, the upcoming months represent not only a chance for redemption but also an opportunity to build momentum before some of the most important tournaments of the Olympic cycle.
