Overview
- Hockey India announced the Dutch coach’s return on January 2 after his 2017–21 tenure that produced a fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics.
- He brings back analyst Matias Vila and performance head Dr Wayne Lombard, with Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila serving as scientific advisors.
- Marijne arrives on January 14, the national camp opens January 19 at SAI Bengaluru, and the first test is the World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad on March 8–14.
- The program enters this phase after failing to reach Paris 2024, finishing last in the FIH Pro League, and facing uncertain World Cup qualification.
- Harendra Singh resigned in December citing personal reasons following reports of player complaints, and officials say MYAS and SAI fast-tracked the new setup with a renewed emphasis on fitness.