Tough task: After the debacle at home, India will need to up its game against Spain and Australia. Photo: Special Arrangement
Outplayed at home, the Indian men’s hockey team would be eager to bounce back and make a fresh start under new skipper Hardik Singh when it begins the FIH Pro League’s overseas leg with a game against Spain in Hobart on Saturday (February 21, 2026).
The Hobart leg of the series, which also features hosts Australia, will be held till February 25 at the Tasmania Hockey Centre.
The recent Rourkela leg proved to be a painful learning curve for the Indians with losses to Argentina and Belgium. Regular skipper Harmanpreet Singh has taken a break to welcome his second child from the upcoming clutch of matches.
The team views these fixtures as a vital opportunity to test combinations, refine structure, and build momentum ahead of the upcoming FIH World Cup and the subsequent Asian Games. After the campaign-opener against Spain, a high-octane clash against Australia is lined up for Sunday.
India will face Spain again on February 24 before concluding the leg with a final match against Australia on February 25.
India and Spain have been evenly-matched in their last 10 encounters, claiming four regulation wins each, alongside two draws that India went on to win in shootouts.
Against Australia, high-scoring drama has been a constant. The hosts hold the statistical edge in their last 10 meetings with six wins to India’s two (and two draws).
Two-time Olympic bronze medallist Hardik will lead the side that also features young players like Amandeep Lakra and Manmeet Singh, both of whom are looking to build on their recent senior debuts.
Rising stars such as Angad Bir Singh, Araijeet Singh Hundal, and Aditya Arjun Lalage will also be eager to prove their mettle in the forward line.
Match starts: 12 noon (IST).
Published – February 21, 2026 05:55 am IST
