Friday 15 May 2026
30 Days To Go Until the FIH Hockey Pro League Comes to London
With just 30 days to go until the FIH Hockey Pro League arrives in London, excitement is building for 12 days of elite international hockey at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.
Eight key players barred from JAC after age limit reduction
By Aftar Singh
National junior coach Nor Saiful Zaini will not have the services of eight key players after the Junior Asia Cup becomes an Under-20 tournament this year. -- NSTP/Filepic
KUALA LUMPUR: The national junior men's hockey team faces a major setback as eight key players became ineligible after the Junior Asia Cup was reclassified as an Under-20 tournament.
Rotterdam beats Pinoké in first match
Peter Klanke
Rotterdam struck the first blow against Pinoké. In the first semi-final of the playoffs, the team from the port city won 1-2 against the Amsterdammers. This puts Rotterdam in pole position towards the fifth final in club history. Sunday at 15:00 awaits the return in Zuid-Holland.
Amsterdam-Orange-Rood ends 2-2
Peter Klanke
Amsterdam and Oranje-Rood delivered everything a semi-final should on Ascension Day, but failed to bring each other to their knees at Wagener Stadium. The home team took the lead each time, but Oranje-Rood always fought their way back into the match. In the end, it remained a 2-2 draw, a result that was already on the scoreboard at half-time. Sunday at 17:00 the return in Eindhoven is scheduled.
Amsterdam too strong for SCHC: 3-2
Peter Klanke
In a delightful semi-final, Amsterdam dealt the first blow to SCHC on Ascension Day. At Wagener Stadium, the home team won handsomely 3-2 over the Bilthoveners, who were unbeaten in the regular league. On Saturday, both teams play the return game in Bilthoven.
No winner at Kampong-Den Bosch
Peter Klanke
Kampong women held reigning national champions Den Bosch to a draw in a riveting matches on Thursday. Both teams stepped off the field with a 1-1 draw in Utrecht after the first semi-final of the playoffs. With that, next Saturday's return at the Oosterplas is far from a foregone conclusion.
Rewatch: 14 goals in first four semi-finals
The first four semi-final matches in the men's and women's playoffs produced 14 goals. The small differences between the teams ensure that Saturday and Sunday's returns will still bring plenty of excitement. Watch the highlights here.
Hockey India Opens Player Registration for Hero Hockey India League 2027
Registrations open to all eligible Indian and international players
New Delhi: Player registrations for the Hero Hockey India League (Hero HIL) 2027 Player Auction are now open. The registration process commenced on 15th May 2026 at 11:00 AM IST, while the player auction is scheduled to take place in September 2026.
SA Hockey interprovincial tournaments provide thrilling World Cup audition
This year’s hockey interprovincial tournament gave players the opportunity to showcase their talent as national coaches aim to narrow the selection pool ahead of the Hockey World Cup in August.
By Annemieke Thomaidis/file/attachments/orphans/Image_04_851050.jpg)
Southern Gauteng celebrate their second goal in the final at the University of Johannesburg on 9 May, sealing their first interprovincial title since 2021. (Photo: Marcel Sigg)
The 2026 Hockey Interprovincial Tournament (IPT) came to a close at the University of Johannesburg on Saturday, 9 May with two gripping finals underpinned by a week of elite hockey.
Preview: Indian U-18 Men’s and Women’s Hockey Teams ready for Australia challenge at SAI Bhopal ahead of U-18 Asia Cup 2026
Four-match series against Australia to serve as crucial preparation for the Men’s and Women’s U-18 Asia Cup 2026 in Kakamigahara, Japan
Bhopal, 14th May 2026: The Indian Men’s and Women’s U-18 Hockey Teams are set to take on Australia’s U-18 teams in a four-match series from 15th to 20th May at the Udhav Das Mehta (Bhai Ji) SAI Central Centre in Bhopal. The exposure tour will serve as a crucial preparatory assignment ahead of the Men’s and Women’s U-18 Asia Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in Kakamigahara, Japan, from 29th May.
Sreejesh slams Hockey India again, raises grievances against goalkeeping coach role: 'Promotion or demotion?'
PR Sreejesh is not ready to keep quiet as he hit back at Hockey India for offering him the coaching role for a team that has no proper structure and also complained about being demoted.)
PR Sreejesh was not given an extension despite helping Indian hockey team win Juinor World Cup bronze medal as coach. Image: Reuters
Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh has once again criticised Hockey India and its president, Dilip Tirkey, stating that the offer to be the “Coach for the Development team” lacked clarity due to the absence of a proper structure. The two-time Olympic medallist Sreejesh created a massive controversy on Wednesday when he claimed that Hockey India had removed him as the national junior men’s team coach to make way for a foreign coach.
Sreejesh was insulted: Former captain Jude Felix tears into Hockey India
Jude Felix has accused Hockey India of insulting PR Sreejesh by removing him from the junior men's team job. The former India captain also questioned the federation's decision to appoint Sreejesh and then not give him the required time in the role.
Alan Jose John
PR Sreejesh was unceremoniously made to leave his role as India Jr.men's team coach. Courtesy: PR Sreejesh, Instagram
It was March 27 at the Hockey India Awards. Every Indian team and coaching staff member was present under one roof. It was a day of celebration, with players and coaches freely interacting with the media. Yet one man seemed detached from it all, unusually withdrawn for someone known for his warmth and energy around the media.
Perth Thundersticks 2026 Player EOIs open
Are you ready to take your game to the next level?
Hockey WA and the Perth Thundersticks have officially opened Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for athletes aiming to be selected in the 2026 Perth Thundersticks program.
Old Boys into final after 13-goal thriller
By Helge Schutz
CLOSE MATCH … Delron Handura of SoE in action against Matu Kavikairiua of WOB. Photo: Helge Schütz
Windhoek Old Boys booked their place in the final of the Indoor Hockey Men’s Premier League after a thrilling 7-6 victory against School of Excellence (SoE) on Wednesday night.
Sikh Union Club Centenary Draws Record Gathering of Hockey Olympians in Nairobi
By Prabhjot Singh
PHOTO: Maninder K. Chandhoke
The centenary celebrations of the Sikh Union Club in Nairobi marked a historic moment in hockey, emerging as one of the largest gatherings of Olympians and World Cup players ever witnessed at a single venue outside India.
Hockey Ireland and Special Olympics Ireland Sign Landmark Partnership Agreement to Expand Inclusive Hockey Opportunities
Hockey Ireland and Special Olympics Ireland to host online information webinar on Tuesday, 27 May from 19:00–20:00.
Dublin: Hockey Ireland is delighted to announce the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Special Olympics Ireland, marking a significant milestone in the continued development of inclusive hockey opportunities for athletes with an intellectual disability across the island of Ireland.
Thursday 14 May 2026
How the USWNT Qualified for the World Cup
The FIH Hockey World Cup stands as one of the sport’s most prestigious global events, showcasing the world’s top nations for more than five decades. Since its inception, the competition has produced unforgettable moments, dominant dynasties, breakthrough performances, and historic milestones for teams around the world, including the U.S. Women’s National Team.
Hockey India Appoints Frederic Soyez as Coach of Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team
New Delhi: Hockey India on Thursday announced the appointment of decorated Frenchman Frederic Soyez as the Coach of the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team, reinforcing its long-term vision of building a sustainable high-performance ecosystem aligned with India’s ambitions for the 2036 Olympic Games.
Rift in Indian Hockey: Legend P.R. Sreejesh and Hockey India at Odds Over Foreign Coach Preference
s2h Team
A significant controversy has erupted in Indian hockey as legendary goalkeeper-turned-coach P.R. Sreejesh took to social media to voice his frustration over his removal from the junior national team, sparking a sharp rebuttal from Hockey India (HI). The public fallout highlights a growing debate regarding the role of domestic versus foreign coaches in the lead-up to the 2036 Olympics.
PR Sreejesh questions Hockey India’s preference for a foreign coach
Former Indian goalkeeper slams Hockey India's preference as his contract as head coach for the Indian U-21 hockey team comes to an end.
Under PR Sreejesh, Team India secured a historic podium at the 2025 FIH
Two-time Olympic bronze medalist PR Sreejesh took to social media on Wednesday to question Hockey India’s preference for a foreign coach for the Indian junior men’s hockey team.
India legend PR Sreejesh hits out at Hockey India after sacking over foreign coach: 'First time I am experiencing this'
Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh has criticised Hockey India after allegedly being removed as junior men’s team coach to make way for a foreign coach despite strong results.)
PR Sreejesh posted a strongly-worded statement to slam Hockey India for sacking him. Image: X-Sreejesh
Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh has strongly criticised Hockey India after being removed as coach of the Indian junior men’s hockey team to make way for a foreign coach.
Hockey India rejects Sreejesh’s 'fired for foreign coach' allegations: 'He did not accept this position'
Hockey India has denied sacking PR Sreejesh as junior men’s team coach, saying his contract ended in 2025 and that he was offered another role, which he allegedly rejected.)
Hockey India has rejected PR Sreejesh's allegations that he was sacked to bring foreign coaches. Image: ANI/PTI
Hockey India (HI) has responded to the allegations made by India legend PR Sreejesh regarding his exit as coach of the Indian junior men’s hockey team. Earlier today, Sreejesh had claimed that he was removed from his role to make way for a foreign coach. The former India goalkeeper had also questioned Hockey India’s preference for overseas coaches despite his successful stint with the junior team.
The reason for lowering the age limit
By Aftar Singh
International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Datuk Tayyab Ikram said that the Federation approved the decision made by the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) Executive Board to adopt a new age format. — NSTP/AIZUDDIN SAAD
KUALA LUMPUR: Under-20 instead of Under-21. How much difference does it make?
Crunch-time in Dutch playoff battle
Its crunch-time in the Dutch playoffs with the first leg of the semi-final stages taking place throughout Thursday with the return matches on the weekend.
What you need to know about the Amsterdam - Oranje-Rood semi-final
Ramon Min
The untouchable Oranje-Rood will visit reigning champion Amsterdam in the first semi-final match of the playoffs on Thursday. Read the facts and figures here.
What you need to know about the Pinoké-Rotterdam semi-final
Ramon Min
The semi-finals of the playoffs for the national title kick off on Thursday. We look ahead with facts and figures to the match between the men of Pinoké and Rotterdam.
What you need to know about the Amsterdam-SCHC semi-final
Ramon Min
Amsterdam women and SCHC face each other in the semi-finals of the playoffs for the national title on Thursday afternoon. Read the facts and figures leading up to that matches here.
What you need to know about the semi-final Kampong-Den Bosch
Ramon Min
Reigning national champions Den Bosch face Kampong in the first semi-final match of the playoffs on Thursday. Check the key facts and figures from that matches here.
Williamson switches from Surbiton to Bloemendaal
HC Bloemendaal have signed English defender Conor Williamson from Surbiton for the upcoming season as the Tokyo Olympian looks to “experience something new” in the Hoofdklasse..
Campo continue ever-presence in EHL Women
Real Club de Campo de Madrid secured qualification for next season’s EHL Women’s competition after a resounding 5-0 victory over Club Egara at Pla del Bon Aire.
Top club accuses England Hockey of ‘failing the game’
Havant has spoken out against governing body PIC: Havant/Facebook
A top Hampshire hockey club has poured scorn on England Hockey for “failing the game” and “losing the trust of the community it exists to serve”.
Wolverhampton hosting Walking Hockey Festival
Wolverhampton and Tettenhall now has 50 members
WV Active Aldersley will host Wolverhampton’s second Walking Hockey Festival this weekend.
More than 600 coaches certified, Hockey India takes Level-1 Coaching Course to new cities 
New Delhi: Aiming to further fortify the domestic development ecosystem and raise technical standards at the grassroots, Hockey India has announced the upcoming schedule for the Hockey India Coaching Education Pathway Level '1' Coaching Course – with new destinations set to add to the programme’s nationwide impact.
Tauqeer Dar: Most Suitable Person for Pakistan Hockey`s Revival
Pakistan has the potential to excel in every field.
By Ijaz Chaudhry
The prime requirement is Right Person for the Right Job
Pakistan's national game is Hockey. Also, the sport which has given us three golds and three silvers at the Olympics. Unfortunately, Pakistan hockey has hit rock bottom. Pakistan has failed to qualify for the last three Olympics.
There is one person who can reinvigorate Pakistan hockey and bring back the past glories.
What are the Foremost Requirements?
-Revitalising hockey at the Grassroots
-Getting Sponsorship
-Arranging Foreign Tours
-Bringing Foreign Teams
Tauqeer Dar (Olympic gold medallist 1984) has the Proven Credentials - Ticks all the Boxes
-He is running the Best Academy in Pakistan, Dar Hockey Academy which is a conveyer belt of talent; providing players to the national teams. Dar Academy boys have been regularly featuring in Pakistan's national and age group teams for the last 10 years
-Arranging Foreign Tours for his academy to top hockey nations: Six tours of Europe in the last 12 years: Holland, Belgium and Germany. Also tours to India & Malaysia.
-All through Sponsorship arranged by his own efforts; not a single penny from the government or federation
-In 2012, when terrorism was at its peak, he arranged a tour of Flying Dutch Veterans to Pakistan. The Dutch team was studded with Olympic & World Cup medallists. The team played three matches in Lahore including two matches at the Johar Town stadium watched by thousands of spectators.
Easily the most suitable person to turn Pakistan hockey’s fortunes around.
If Tauqeer is appointed the Secretary General of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, he can bring big business tycoons to sponsor hockey in the country. He can turn the PHF into a corporate body. Pakistan hockey will not be dependent on the government for any financial assistance and will also again see the international achievements of the past.
The following two videos give a good insight into the work & achievements of the Hockey Academy:
Dar Hockey Academy - A Great Success Story
Link:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjAcFKWjRI0&t=331s
Dar Hockey Academy (Pakistan) Tour of Europe 2019
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TDyMDqK0Gk&t=32s
Ijaz...Ijaz Chaudhry writes on hockey & other sports. For more about him & his work, visit http://www.sportscorrespondent.info