# Baskaran, Fulton back India for strong World Cup show

2026-08-08T11:47:52+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Olympic gold medal-winning captain V. Baskaran says the Indian men's hockey team is the best-prepared side for the World Cup starting August 15 in Belgium and the Netherlands. The 75-year-old, speaking at the Tamil Hockey League launch, called the squad balanced and praised goalkeepers Mohith H.S. and Suraj Karkera. Coach Craig Fulton, whose team has a 5-6 percent chance of winning according to bookmakers, aims for a podium finish. The South African admitted the Asian Games, beginning three weeks later, puts Asian teams at a disadvantage. Fulton stressed defence and counter-attacks, saying India is among the world's top three pressing teams.

## Coverage

- thehindu.com <https://www.thehindu.com/sport/hockey/baskaran-hopeful-of-indias-prospects-in-the-world-cup/article71318776.ece>
- economictimes.indiatimes.com <https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/sports/hockey/we-want-to-win-asian-games-and-stand-on-world-cup-podium-india-mens-hockey-coach-craig-fulton/articleshow/133057990.cms>
- newindianexpress.com <https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/other/2026/Aug/08/defences-win-you-tournaments-like-world-cup-fulton>

Tags: Craig Fulton, Hockey World Cup, India hockey, Indian men's hockey team, Tamil Hockey League, V Baskaran
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