New Delhi, Jul 26 (IANS): Hockey India on Wednesday announced the 20-member junior women's team for Four Nations Tournament, scheduled to be played from August 18 to 23 in Dusseldorf, Germany.
India will play against England, Spain, and hosts Germany. The tournament will be part of the team’s preparations for the all-important 2023 Women's FIH Hockey Junior World Cup, scheduled to be played in Santiago, Chile from November 29 to December 10.
The team will be led by talented defender Preeti and skilful midfielder Rutuja Dadaso Pisal will shoulder the duties of vice-captain.
The goalkeeping department will be entrusted to the talented duo of Madhuri Kindo and Khushboo, while the defenders' list includes Preeti, Ropni Kumari, Anjali Barwa, Neelam, and Thounaojam Nirupama Devi.
Meanwhile, the midfield will witness the presence of Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Manju Chorsiya, Sakshi Rana, Sujata Kujur, Bhumiksha Sahu, Jyoti Singh, Mahima Tete, and Hina Bano.
In the forward department, the team boasts a formidable line-up consisting of Annu, Deepika Soreng, Sunelita Toppo, Kajal Sadashiv Atpadkar, and Mumtaz Khan.
Speaking on the tour, Indian women's junior team coach Tushar Khandker said: "The 4 Nations Tournament will be a great opportunity for our team to prove their mettle on an international stage again and implement our learnings from practice sessions."
The tournament presents an ideal opportunity to hone our tactics and gauge our abilities against formidable opponents. This event will serve as a crucial means to pinpoint areas for enhancement, playing a pivotal role in our readiness for the Junior World Cup. We firmly believe that this valuable exposure will elevate our performance and equip us to confront the forthcoming challenges with confidence," he added.
Indian Team:
Goalkeepers: Madhuri Kindo and Khushboo
Defenders: Preeti (C), Ropni Kumari, Anjali Barwa, Neelam, Thounaojam Nirupama Devi
Midfielders: Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (VC), Manju Chorsiya, Sakshi Rana, Sujata Kujur, Bhumiksha Sahu, Jyoti Singh, Mahima Tete, Hina Bano
Forwards: Annu, Deepika Soreng, Sunelita Toppo, Kajal Sadashiv Atpadkar, Mumtaz Khan