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The 24-person India U-18 Men`s and Women`s teams for the forthcoming home series against Australia from May 15–20 were announced by Hockey India on Thursday.
The four-match series, to be played at SAI Bhopal, is a critical part of the teams` preparations for the Men`s and Women`s U-18 Asia Cup to be held at Kakamigahara, Japan, from May 29-June 6.
After a week of intense testing during the national coaching camp, a group of 42 players was narrowed down, and the squad members were chosen primarily on their tactical flexibility and match fitness.
The Indian U-18 women`s team will be captained by Sweety Kujur, while the Indian U-18 men`s team will be captained by forward Ketan Kushwaha.
“After a productive week in the camp, we have identified the 24 players who we believe are ready for international exposure. These matches against Australia are not just practice games, as they are a vital test of our match temperament and tactical discipline. Ketan is a natural leader, and I am keen to see how this group handles the pace and pressure of the Australian style before we head to the U-18 Asia Cup in Japan,” said Sardar Singh, coach of the men`s side.
“We have pruned the squad to 24 players who have shown the greatest consistency and growth during the camp. Sweety has the experience and vision required to lead this young side effectively. Playing four matches against a top-tier side like Australia in Bhopal will give us a clear picture of our strengths and the areas that need adjustment. This series is the ultimate dress rehearsal for the girls before the Asia Cup,” said Rani Rampal, women`s team head coach.” he added.
Confirmed squads for the Australian series
U-18 Men`s Squad:
Goalkeepers: Sawan Kumar, Ayush Rajak, Vishal Bada; Defenders: Ansh Bahutra, Ashish Tani Purti, Arman Soreng, Deepakprakash Toppo, Karan Gautam, Karan Dhanuk; Midfielders: Premchand Soy, Rahul Yadav, Varinder Singh, Romit Pal, Arjandeep Singh, Gursimranpreet Singh, Arshdip Singh, Avi Manikpuri; Forwards: Akash Deep, Ketan Kushwaha (Captain), Shahrukh Ali, Gazee Khan, Prahalad Rajbhar, Siddharth Ben, Jaysan Kandulna
U-18 Women`s Squad:
Goalkeepers: Mahak Parihar, Harry, Khili Kumari; Defenders: Sugan Sanga, Nilam Topno, Rubina Baxla, Kiran Ekka, Divya Yadav, Sulochani; Midfielders: Shruti Kumari, Diya, Harshita, Rashmeen Kaur, Laminganbi Akoijam, Nancy Saroha, Tongbram Lanchenbi Devi, Sneha Davde; Forwards: Nousheen Naz, Sweety Kujur (Captain), Priyanka Minz, Sandeepa Kumari, Nammi Geetashree, Princess Priya Ekka, Pushpa Manjhi.
(With PTI Input)
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