Manpreet Axed from Core Probables over Disciplinary Issues

Hockey India has dropped veteran midfielder and former captain Manpreet Singh, along with Dilpreet Singh and goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, from the list of probables for the upcoming FIH Pro League season due to disciplinary issues during the team’s South Africa tour in December.

Sources said a serious case of indiscipline surfaced during the three-Test series in South Africa, prompting the governing body to take strict action. The incident reportedly involved the three named players and another teammate, whose identity remains undisclosed. According to sources, the players later apologised for giving a teammate a banned substance, but Hockey India decided to exclude them from the upcoming national camp.

India toured South Africa from December 2 to 16, losing the series 2-0, with the third and final match ending in a draw. Hockey India announced the list of probables on Thursday, and Manpreet’s absence immediately drew attention, given his long-standing presence in the national setup.

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Decision follows alleged indiscipline during India’s South Africa tour; former captain Manpreet misses probables list for first time in 15 years

The upcoming FIH Pro League season will begin next month in Rourkela, with the India leg scheduled from February 10 to 15. India will open their campaign against Argentina on February 11. The national camp for probables will be held from February 1 to 7.

Despite the setback, Manpreet had recently delivered a strong performance in the Hockey India League, where he co-captained Ranchi Royals to the final. The 33-year-old midfielder, a member of India’s Olympic bronze medal-winning teams, has failed to make the probables list for the first time in 15 years. Manpreet has also played 412 international matches, second only to Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey in appearances for India.

Hockey India has not issued a detailed statement on the disciplinary matter, but sources said the federation conveyed its decision to the players during a team meeting, reinforcing its stance on maintaining discipline within the squad.

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