India: The Indian men’s hockey team heads to the 2025 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia

~ Captain Sanjay will lead the team, which will play matches from November 23 to 30, 2025 ~

Bangalore, November 17, 2025: The Indian men’s hockey team left Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru in the early hours of Monday for Ipoh, Malaysia to participate in the 31st Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025, scheduled from November 23 to 30.

The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has long been considered one of the most prestigious invitational tournaments in the hockey world, providing teams with a valuable platform to compete against high-quality opponents. This edition features a strong field, with India set to take on Korea in the opening match on November 23, followed by matches against Belgium, where Malaysia, New Zealand and Canada will be played in the round-robin stage. The top two teams at the end of the competition phase will secure a place in the final on November 30.

Over the past few weeks, the Indian team has been training in Bengaluru, focusing on tactical form, structured play, fitness and refining combinations under the guidance of defender Sanjay, who will lead the team in the tournament. The team approaches the event with confidence and a well-defined plan, after going through an intensive block of preparation.

Expressing his confidence ahead of the tournament, Captain Sanjay said: “We are very much looking forward to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. The team has been working hard over the past few weeks, with an emphasis on both tactical discipline and fitness. This tournament always offers a great competitive atmosphere and an opportunity to test ourselves against strong international opponents. We are prepared and motivated to give our best in every match, and the aim is to maintain consistency and challenge for the title.”

Speaking about the team’s mindset, he added, “There is a great energy in the group. Everyone understands their role and we are excited to represent India on an important platform like this. We hope to make the country proud and continue the positive momentum.”