# New Hockey World Cup format tests India ahead of Asian Games

2026-08-12T18:32:01+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 2 independent outlets

The Indian men’s and women’s hockey teams face a crucial two months with the World Cup (August 15-30) followed by the Asian Games (September 19-October 4). Chief coach Craig Fulton has called this the most important period before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The World Cup has a new format that eliminates the quarterfinal stage, replacing it with a second round-robin. Fulton says starting well in the pool is critical because points from head-to-head matches carry forward. The Indian men, grouped with England, Pakistan and Wales, have not won a World Cup medal since 1975. The women face China and England in their pool. Both teams will wear saffron jerseys instead of the traditional blue for better visibility against the blue playing surface. Hockey India made the change for technical reasons, but former players have criticised the move.

## Coverage

- newindianexpress.com <https://www.newindianexpress.com/explainers/2026/Aug/12/the-new-format-of-hockey-world-cup-and-where-india-stands>
- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/hockey/the-world-cup-s-not-an-easy-tournament-craig-fulton-101786462142871.html>

Tags: Hockey World Cup, India men's hockey, India women's hockey, jersey controversy, new format
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