Hockey India on May 10 announced the 18-member Indian junior women’s squad for the prestigious Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023, starting June 2 in Kakamigahara, Japan.
The Indian junior women will take on Korea, Malaysia, Chinese Taipei and Uzbekistan in Pool A during the group stage. Whereas, Pool B comprises hosts Japan, China, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong China and Indonesia.
The Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 is an important event for the Indian junior women’s hockey team, as the top three nations from the tournament will qualify for the FIH Junior Women’s Hockey World Cup 2023.
Captain Preeti will lead India’s campaign, while Deepika has been named the vice-captain. Goalkeepers Madhuri Kindo and Aditi Maheshwari are part of the team along with defenders Mahima Tete, Preeti, Neelam, Ropani Kumari and Anjali Barwa. According to a Hockey India press release, the midfield comprises Rutja Dadaso Pisal, Manju Chorasia, Jyoti Chhatri, Vaishnavi Vithal Phalke, Sujata Kujur and Manashree Narendra Shedge.
India’s frontline will be led by experienced Mumtaz Khan, vice-captains Deepika and Dipika Soreng, as well as newcomers Annu and Sunilita Toppo.
Talking about the team and the campaign, head coach Janke Schoepmann said, “It was not easy to select 18 players for the Junior Asia Cup. There is a lot of talent in India and it is great that these young players are getting a chance to prove themselves on the international stage.”
“With Junior World Cup qualification at stake, we know we have to compete every moment, but I’m excited to see where this team can go,” he added.
India will begin their campaign against Uzbekistan on June 3, followed by a match against Malaysia on June 5. They will face Korea on June 6, followed by a match against Chinese Taipei. The semi-finals will be held on June 10 while the final will be played on June 11.
Indian junior women’s team:
Goalkeeper: Madhuri Kindo, Aditi Maheshwari
defenders: Mahima Tete, Preeti (C), Neelam, Roshni Kumari, Anjali Barwa
midfielder: Rutja Dadaso Pisal, Manju Chaurasia, Jyoti Chhatri, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Sujata Kujur, Manashree Narendra Shedge
Ahead: Mumtaz Khan, Dipika (VC), Dipika Soreng, Annu, Sunilita Toppo.