Jyoti-led squad set for Aussie challenge

With the Junior World Cup in Chile fast approaching, India’s young women hockey players will get a stern test in Australia, where defender Jyoti Singh has been named captain of the 23-member squad for a five-match tour.

The team will face three matches against the Australian junior women’s side, followed by two fixtures against Canberra Chill, a club from the Hockey One League. All games are scheduled at the National Hockey Centre in Canberra from September 26 to October 2.

Jyoti, who gained senior international exposure during the FIH Pro League earlier this year, will lead a balanced squad that combines promise with experience. Goalkeepers Nidhi and Engil Harsha Rani Minz will guard the posts, while defenders Manisha, Lalthantluangi, Mamita Oram, Sakshi Shukla, Puja Sahoo and Nandni will form the backline alongside the skipper.

The midfield unit features Priyanka Yadav, Sakshi Rana, Khaidem Shileima Chanu, Rajni Kerketta, Binima Dhan, Ishika, Sunelita Toppo and Anisha Sahu, while forwards Lalrinpuii, Nisha Minj, Purnima Yadav, Sonam, Kanika Siwach and Sukhveer Kaur will spearhead the attack.

Coach Tushar Khandker said the group has been working hard in training and is well prepared for the challenge. “Although they are young, they are quite experienced for their age and have been playing together really well. The Australia tour will be a great opportunity to showcase their abilities and gain valuable international experience,” he noted.

The Junior World Cup will be played in Santiago in December.