The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team is gearing up to kick off their European tour on Tuesday, in preparation for the forthcoming international season. During the tour, the team will compete in six games across three countries: Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands facing club teams Bredase Hockey Vereniging Push and Oranje Rood. Scheduled matches will occur on May 21, May 22, May 24, May 26, May 27, and May 29.
After the training camp in Bengaluru, the upcoming tour will be crucial for the team to refine and evaluate their abilities in a global setting.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Captain Jyoti Singh stated, “The entire team is looking forward to the opportunity. We have had an excellent phase of preparation, and the Europe tour will allow us to test our skills in match conditions.” The vice-captain, Sakshi Rana, added, “Playing for our country is an immense honor and a source of great pride. We are committed to giving our best in every match and making India proud.”
The team will be Captained by defender Jyoti Singh, with midfielder Sakshi Rana serving as Vice-Captain. Aditi Maheshwari and Nidhi will handle goalkeeping duties, while the defensive line-up will include Jyoti Singh, Lalthantluangi, Anjali Barwa, Puja Sahoo, Mamita Oram, and Nirru Kullu. In the midfield, Kshetrimayum Sonia Devi, Rajani Kerketta, Priyanka Yadav, Khaidem Shileima Chanu, Sakshi Rana, Anisha Sahu, and Supriya Kujur will play. The forward positions will be filled by Binima Dhan, Hina Bano, Lalrinpuii, Ishika, Sanjana Horo, Sonam, and Kanika Siwach.
The debut match of the Indian Junior Women’s team is scheduled against Bredase Hockey Vereniging Pushon on May 21 at 10:00 PM IST.