Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, May 22: Sweety Kujur was on Friday named captain of the 18-member Indian women’s Under-18 squad for the Asia Cup hockey tournament scheduled to be held in Kakamigahara, Japan from May 29 to June 6.

The Indian squad features a five-member forward line led by captain Sweety Kujur along with Nousheen Naz, Priyanka Minz, Sandeepa Kumari and Nancy Saroha.

The midfield unit includes Shruti Kumari, Diya, Sneha Davde, Rashmeen Kaur, Nammi Geetashree and Pushpa Manjhi.

The defensive line comprises Sugan Sanga, Nilam Topno, Rubina Baxla, Kiran Ekka and Sulochani, while Mahak Parihar and Khili Kumari have been named as goalkeepers.

The team heads into the tournament after undergoing several weeks of intensive training at the national camp in Bhopal under the guidance of the coaching staff led by former Indian captain Rani.

According to Hockey India, the camp focused on fitness, tactical discipline, match readiness and improving on-field coordination among players.

“This tournament is a great opportunity for the young players to gain international exposure and understand the pressure of top-level competition. The team is motivated to represent the country and our aim is to play fearless hockey and compete strongly for the title,” Rani said.

As part of their preparations, the Indian team recently played a four-match series against Australia in Bhopal and concluded the series with a confidence-boosting victory.

India have been placed in Pool A alongside Korea, Malaysia and Singapore. The team will begin its campaign against Malaysia on May 30 before taking on Korea on May 31. India will play their final pool-stage match against Singapore on June 2.

Pool B consists of China, Japan, Chinese Taipei and Bangladesh.

The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semi-finals scheduled for June 5, while the final will be played on June 6.