Times of India Sports Awards 2026 Set for Lucknow to Celebrate Sporting Excellence
The eighth edition of the prestigious Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) is scheduled to take place on March 21, 2026, in the vibrant city of Lucknow. This grand event aims to honor the remarkable achievements and inspiring journeys of India's finest athletes across a diverse range of sports disciplines. TOISA 2026 will specifically recognize performances delivered between January 1 and December 31, 2025, spotlighting standout displays at major international tournaments and world championships that brought immense pride to the nation.
Comprehensive Awards and Esteemed Jury Panel
Featuring more than 45 award categories, TOISA 2026 is designed to acknowledge both established stars and rising talents who have excelled on the global stage. The winners will be determined by a distinguished jury comprising some of India's most celebrated sporting icons. This panel includes Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra, hockey legend PR Sreejesh, former batting great Mithali Raj, Paralympic champion Devendra Jhajharia, table tennis stalwart Sharath Kamal, and tennis legend Leander Paes. Their collective expertise ensures a credible and comprehensive evaluation of excellence across Indian sport, adding significant prestige to the awards.
Hockey Nominees Reflect India's Strong Continental Performances
The hockey nominees for TOISA 2025 vividly reflect India's strong performances on the continental stage during the year. In the men's category, Asia Cup-winning captain Harmanpreet Singh led from the front with six goals, while forward Abhishek Nain was named Player of the Tournament after scoring six times in the title-winning campaign. Defenders Jugraj Singh and Amit Rohidas also impressed with consistent performances across the Asia Cup and Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
In the women's category, defender Udita Duhan stood out with a Player of the Tournament display in India's runners-up finish at the Asia Cup. Forwards Navneet Kaur and Mumtaz Khan were joint top scorers for India with six goals each, while Rutuja Pisal added four goals to underline the depth and promise in India's attacking lineup.
Detailed Profiles of Hockey Nominees
HOCKEY - MALE
- Abhishek Nain: Born on August 15, 1999, in Sonipat, Haryana, this forward enjoyed a breakthrough 2025 season. He was instrumental in India's triumphant campaign at the Men's Hockey Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, scoring six goals and earning the Player of the Tournament award. Abhishek also made a significant impact at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, netting three times as India finished runners-up.
- Harmanpreet Singh: Born on January 6, 1996, in Amritsar, Punjab, he led as captain to a memorable title triumph at the Men's Hockey Asia Cup. A commanding defender and drag-flick specialist, Harmanpreet scored six goals during the tournament, showcasing his leadership and clinical finishing.
- Jugraj Singh: Born on December 11, 1996, in Attari, Punjab, this defender played a key role in India's Asia Cup victory, contributing four crucial goals. He continued his form at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, scoring four more goals as India finished runners-up.
- Amit Rohidas: Born on May 10, 1993, in Sundergarh, Odisha, the vice-captain was vital in India's Asia Cup win, scoring two goals and marshalling the backline. He added four goals at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, demonstrating reliability in defence and effectiveness in attack.
HOCKEY - FEMALE
- Udita Duhan: Born on January 14, 1998, in Hisar, Haryana, she was instrumental in India's runners-up finish at the Women's Hockey Asia Cup in Hangzhou, China. Scoring three goals and anchoring the backline, Udita earned the Player of the Tournament award for her all-round impact.
- Navneet Kaur: Born on January 26, 1996, in Shahabad Markanda, Haryana, this experienced forward finished as joint top-scorer with six goals at the Asia Cup, leading India's attack to the final.
- Mumtaz Khan: Born on January 15, 2003, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, the young forward impressed with six goals at the Asia Cup, forming a fine partnership with Navneet Kaur to power India to the final.
- Rutuja Pisal: Born on November 28, 2002, in Satara, Maharashtra, she netted four goals at the Asia Cup and earlier scored both goals in a Hockey India League championship victory, highlighting her rising talent.
This event promises to be a grand celebration of India's sporting legends, recognizing their hard work and dedication on an international platform.
