New Delhi/Jalandhar, October 27: Top-tier continental hockey returns to the region as India begins its quest for a sixth Asian Champions Trophy title on home turf.
The ninth edition of the championship gathers India, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, China, and Bangladesh in a single round-robin format. The top four teams at the end of the league phase will advance to the knockout rounds.
India enters the competition carrying strong momentum following its recent Asian Games triumph. Captain Harmanpreet Singh affirmed that the team remains disciplined and committed to executing its match plans against all participating nations.
Squad adjustments include midfielder Vivek Sagar Prasad, who joined the roster after star playmaker Manpreet Singh was sidelined by a calf injury. Malaysia, coming off a runner-up finish at the Asian Games, stands among the key contenders aiming to disrupt the host nation’s title defense.
Jalandhar’s Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium will host all league matches through November 2, concluding with India’s fixture against South Korea. The tournament then moves to Mohali’s Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium for the final rounds, concluding with the championship match on November 5.
To celebrate Punjab’s rich sporting heritage, the opening day features dynamic cultural showcases including Bhangra, Gidha, and Gatka presentations. Officials emphasized that entry to all matches across both venues remains completely free for spectators.
