How many players can we name, and which rules apply in 2027?

Question

Accepted Answer

Squad (FIH Rules of Hockey 2027, Terminology and Rule 2.1): a team has up to 16 people: a maximum of 11 players on the field and up to 5 substitutes. Competition regulations may change the maximum number of players and substitutes, and the number and roles of team officials. Which rules: the SA Hockey Association plays to the FIH Rules of Hockey. The 2027 edition is effective for international hockey from 1 November 2026, and national associations decide when it starts domestically. This guide follows the 2027 edition. Changes that matter most on the bench: Team officials can be carded, and a green or yellow card means the team plays a player short. Goalkeeper substitutions no longer need time stopped (you can still ask). No communication devices may be used or worn by players. Team benches sit outside and along one side of the field. No second green or yellow card for the same person in a match; yellow cards are 5 or 10 minutes. Default match length (Rule 5.1): four 15-minute quarters, 2-minute breaks after quarters 1 and 3, and a 10-minute half-time, unless the competition's regulations set other timings.