The much-anticipated India-Germany bilateral hockey series is set to take place on October 23 and 24 at the historic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. This event marks the return of international hockey to the capital after a decade-long hiatus.
The Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium last hosted an international match during the Hockey World League Final in January 2014, making this event even more special.
The clash between India and Germany promises to deliver intense and exciting hockey, as both teams share a fierce rivalry. Since 2013, the two sides have faced each other 19 times, with India winning 8 matches and Germany 7.
Germany, the reigning World Champions and silver medalists at the Paris 2024 Olympics, will look to continue their dominance, but India will be eager to avenge their narrow 3-2 loss in the semi-finals in Paris.
For India’s head coach Craig Fulton, the series holds special significance, as he made his international debut at the same venue in the 1995 Indira Gandhi Gold Cup. His return to this historic venue, now as head coach of the Indian national team, marks a full-circle moment in his career. After 29 years, Fulton brings his wealth of experience and leadership to a team that has shown significant improvement under his guidance, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter.
“It’s a special feeling to be back at this iconic venue where my international journey began nearly three decades ago,” Fulton said. “To return here as the coach of the Indian national team is truly remarkable. Playing against a top team like Germany in front of passionate home fans adds to the significance of the occasion. It’s a moment of pride and reflection for me, and I’m eager to guide this talented group of players through such an important series.”
On the challenge of facing Germany, Fulton said, “Germany is tactically strong and effective in man-to-man marking. Our strategy will need to adapt during the game, we might play one way for 10 minutes and completely shift gears after that. They are a smart team, and we enjoy the challenge of playing them.”
Indian team captain Harmanpreet Singh also expressed his excitement about playing his first international match in New Delhi. “Playing in Delhi is always special for me. I have great memories of this city and the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. In 2013, I trained here as part of the junior camp, spending countless hours honing my skills. It feels like a homecoming to return here for an international match.”
“The intensity will be just as high as it was in Paris. What matters is learning from each match, whether we win or lose. Every team follows certain structures, and our focus will be on executing them”, he added.
India, buoyed by their recent form, including their Asian Champions Trophy victory, will look to capitalise on their home advantage and outpace a well-prepared German side.