India will kick off the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign against Wales on Saturday, August 15, with Harmanpreet Singh’s side aiming to end the 51-year wait for a second World Cup title. India’s only triumph came in 1975 when Ajit Pal Singh led the team to victory over Pakistan in the final. But it’s been a struggle for the team since the triumph, with the team failing to make the top four. However, their recent Olympic record offers reason for optimism, with India winning back-to-back bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris.
