A Rising Force at Asia Cup 2025

India’s hockey team is currently showcasing exceptional prowess at the Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir, Bihar. Having already secured a spot in the Super Four stage with a dominant performance, including a crushing 15-2 victory over Kazakhstan, the team looks poised to clinch the championship and secure its place in the upcoming Men’s Hockey World Cup. Behind this powerhouse squad is mental strength and conditioning coach Paddy Upton, known for being a vital part of India’s 2011 ODI World Cup-winning cricket team and a former coach of cricket maestro Virat Kohli.

“18-20 Virat Kohlis” in Hockey for Physicality and Dedication

In an exclusive interaction with Mid-Day, Paddy Upton shed light on the Indian hockey team’s extraordinary commitment to fitness, training, nutrition, and rest. Drawing a bold comparison, he claimed that the team houses 18 to 20 players who exhibit the same level of physical fitness and dedication as Virat Kohli, who is regarded as one of the fittest cricketers globally.

Upton elaborated, “If I compare the dedication to sleeping, eating, and training of this hockey team to the time I worked with Indian cricket, these hockey players operate leagues above. Virat Kohli’s level of fitness and dedication is unique in world cricket, but here, every player rivals that intensity. This is truly a team of 18-20 Virat Kohli.”

This statement highlights not only the physical conditioning but also the mental resilience that the hockey squad embodies, making them a formidable unit on the field.

Preparing for Future Glory: 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics

Adding to the excitement, Paddy Upton confirmed his ongoing collaboration with the team, working closely with head coach Craig Fulton and captain Harmanpreet Singh. They recognise the importance of mental conditioning to help players maintain focus amidst the pressures of high-stakes international tournaments.

Upton hinted that his role would be crucial in upcoming major events, including the 2026 Men’s Hockey World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, stating, “The leadership group, including coach Craig Fulton and captain Harmanpreet Singh, feel I should work with the team before big tournaments. The goal is to help the players manage distractions and maintain peak performance.”

The Mental Edge in Modern Sports

Paddy Upton’s expertise in mental conditioning is a key factor in the Indian hockey team’s remarkable success. His experience in high-pressure cricketing environments and previous work with elite athletes provide the players with strategies to enhance their mental toughness, focus, and resilience. This holistic approach—combining physical training with psychological readiness—has become vital for teams aiming for global dominance.

A Hockey Team Set for Historic Success

India’s hockey team, backed by expert coaching and extraordinary dedication, is shaping up to be a serious contender on the international stage. Paddy Upton’s praise, likening them to “18-20 Virat Kohlis” is a testament to their unparalleled fitness and determination. As they gear up for the Asia Cup 2025 title and look ahead to the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, Indian hockey fans have every reason to be optimistic about their team’s future.

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