New Delhi: Hockey India have announced the 18-men squad for the Hockey World League semi-finals in Belgium. Indian Team led by Sardar Singh has no place for defenders Rupinderpal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh that was part of the side which faced Japan earlier this month. The tournament commences from 20th June to 5th July 2015. The league features 10 teams divided in Pool A & B. India is placed at Pool A along with France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia whereas China, Ireland, Malaysia, Great Britain and Belgium are sited in Pool B.

The 18-member squad will be captained by the very proficient midfielder Sardar Singh who has to his credit of 216 International caps. He will be supported by Vice-Captain PR Sreejesh. Playing their first match on 20 June 2015, India is slotted against France in their opening match of the tournament.

The Indian Men Hockey Team is all geared up and motivated for the upcoming challenge and looking forward to giving a tough time to the opponents on the field.

Speaking on the announcement of the team, India Chief Coach Paul van Ass said, “The team is full of confidence which they proved in the recent Japan series where they gave Japan a tough time and beat them 3-0. As they will be clashing with the finest of the teams, the boys are working upon their strategies and confident to put up a good show in the tournament. Their pool is tough but the boys are confident of putting up a great show. The team is excited to face Australia yet again.”

FIH Hockey World League Semi-Final is scheduled from 20th June- 05 July 2015. India will be seen clashing against France at 09:30 PM IST in their opening match of the tournament on 20 June 2015.

List of Indian Men Hockey Team –

GOALKEEPERS

1. PR Sreejesh

2. Harjot Singh

DEFENDERS
3. Manpreet Singh

4. Birendra Lakra

5. Kothajit Singh

6. VR Ragunath

7. Jasjit Singh Kular

8. Gurmail Singh

MIDFIELDERS

9. Gurbaj Singh

10. Dharamvir Singh

11. Sardar Singh

12. Chinglensana Singh

13. Lalit Upadhyay

FORWARDS

14. SV Sunil

15. Nikkin Thimmaiah

16. Yuvraj Walmiki

17. Akashdeep Singh

18. Ramandeep Singh