# India men’s hockey open World Cup on 80th Independence Day

2026-08-13T23:08:35+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 2 independent outlets

India's men's hockey team opens its World Cup campaign against Wales on August 15, the country's 80th Independence Day. The Harmanpreet Singh-led side aims to end a 51-year drought since its only title in 1975. Back-to-back Olympic bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris have raised belief. Veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh, playing his fourth World Cup, called this likely his last and said he is determined to win the missing medal. India faces England and Pakistan in Pool D. The women's team, captained by Salima Tete, begins against China on August 16.

## Coverage

- thehindu.com <https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/sticks-and-goals-on-india-at-the-fih-hockey-world-cup-2026/article71341289.ece>
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/hockey/top-stories/this-could-be-my-last-world-cup-manpreet-singh-eyes-title-to-end-indias-51-year-wait/articleshow/133230874.cms>
- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/hockey/probably-my-last-world-cup-looking-to-make-it-memorable-manpreet-singh-101786691236765.html>

Tags: Craig Fulton, FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, Harmanpreet Singh, India men's hockey, India women's hockey, Sjoerd Marijne
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