🇮🇳 Vivek Sagar Prasad — Hockey World Cup 2026 Profile & Stats

Vivek Sagar Prasad may be the youngest regular starter in India's 2026 World Cup squad at 24, but his 97 caps and rapid development under Craig Fulton have made him one of the most anticipated young midfielders in world hockey. Born in Sundergarh — the heartland of Indian field hockey — Vivek brings a combination of quick passing, vision, and tireless work rate that complements Hardik Singh's more physical presence in midfield.

Vivek plays as the right-centre midfielder in India's setup, acting as the creative link between midfield and the forward line. He is primarily a first-touch, quick-release passer who prefers one-touch combinations through tight spaces. His penalty corner injection has improved significantly — he now injects for Harmanpreet's drag-flicks at a success rate of over 90% (meaning clean, usable deliveries).

❓ Fan Question: "Is Vivek Sagar Prasadfit for the Hockey World Cup 2026?"
✅ Answer: See the July 2026 form update below.

At the July 2026 Bengaluru camp, Vivek was described by Craig Fulton as "our most creative outlet from midfield." He scored one field goal in the intra-squad practice matches and completed his best physical testing scores to date, recording a 12.4-second 100m time on the GPS tracking systems.

Vivek Sagar Prasad could be India's surprise tournament player — the young midfielder who, in a high-pressure World Cup environment, delivers the unexpected passes and creative solutions that rigid tactical systems cannot plan for. Against England on August 17, his quick combination play with Hardik Singh will be India's main route through England's disciplined midfield block.

Debuted at 17 in 2019, making him one of India's youngest-ever debutants. Won Olympic bronze at 18 in Tokyo — the youngest member of that squad. Has 97 caps and 22 goals at just 24 years old. Named in FIH's Young Player of the Year shortlist twice (2022, 2024).