Hockey India has revealed the 20-member squad for the Men’s Junior Asia Cup, a crucial qualifying event for the FIH Hockey Junior World Cup 2025. The tournament will take place in Muscat, Oman, from November 26 to December 4. India, who have previously won the Junior Asia Cup a record four times in 2004, 2008, 2015, and 2023, will look to continue their success as they aim for another podium finish.
India’s Strong Track Record In The Junior Asia Cup
India is the defending champion of the Junior Asia Cup, having defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 2-1 in a thrilling final last year. The Indian junior team has been a dominant force in the competition, and with the 2023 title in their possession, they are determined to extend their legacy.
Teams And Pool Divisions For The 2023 Junior Asia Cup
This year’s Men’s Junior Asia Cup will feature 10 teams from across the continent, split into two pools:
Here’s a table summarizing the pool divisions for the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2023:
| Pool A | Pool B |
|---|---|
| India | Bangladesh |
| Chinese Taipei | Malaysia |
| Japan | China |
| Korea | Oman |
| Thailand | Pakistan |
Despite already securing a spot in the FIH Hockey Junior World Cup 2025 as hosts, India’s squad, led by Coach PR Sreejesh, will aim to build on their recent momentum from the Sultan of Johor Cup, where they earned a place on the podium.
Also Read: Mithali Raj To Mentor Andhra Women’s Cricket: A New Era Of Excellence?
Squad Announcement: India’s 20-Member Roster
The Indian junior team will be led by Amir Ali and vice-captained by Rohit. The team’s goalkeeping duties will be shared by Princedeep Singh and Bikramjit Singh. Defenders selected for the squad include Amir Ali, Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Yogember Rawat, Anmol Ekka, and Rohit. Midfielders on the roster are Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Mukesh Toppo, Thokchom Kingson Singh, and forwards include Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, and Araijeet Singh Hundal.
Additionally, Sukhvinder and Chandan Yadav have been named as alternate players.
PR Sreejesh Talks Confidence And Preparation
Coach PR Sreejesh, a former India goalkeeper, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance at the Sultan of Johor Cup, where many of the players gained valuable international experience. “The Sultan of Johor Cup was a first-time experience for many players, yet they showed great spirit and performed well. We will take confidence from that success into the Junior Asia Cup,” Sreejesh commented.
He also emphasized the importance of the ongoing national camp at the SAI Bengaluru facility, where players have been working hard to refine their skills. Sreejesh mentioned that the team has made key changes in their approach to become more effective in defense and improve their goal conversion rate.
Looking Ahead To The Junior Asia Cup
As the Indian junior team prepares for the 2023 Men’s Junior Asia Cup, their goal is clear: to secure another title and further strengthen their qualification for the FIH Hockey Junior World Cup 2025. The squad’s hard work and determination will be key as they take on the continent’s best teams in Oman later this month.
