Felt really good returning back to camp: Manpreet

In January, Manpreet Singh's name was not included in the core probables for the national camp.

- Sandip Sikdar

In his 15-year career, it was the first time the former India skipper was not included in the list from which the Indian hockey team is selected.

While Hockey India (HI) and Manpreet maintained that the 33-year-old was rested on his own request, the reality was different. The veteran midfielder, along with a couple of others, were dropped for disciplinary reasons for an incident that had occurred during the tour of South Africa in December 2025.

The two-time Olympic bronze medallist missed both the Rourkela and Hobart legs of the Pro League but returned to the national camp afterward, improving his chances for an India return.

"Obviously, it's a great feeling when you come back to your squad. Representing India has always been the biggest thing for me. It's been so long since I played. Ever since I came back, there's been a lot of eagerness, excitement and energy to do my best for my team, country, family. It felt really good coming back," said Manpreet, who last played for India in December 2025.