Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Nov 15: With the FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup just days away, Indian captain Rohit struck a confident tone on Saturday, declaring that the team is eager to perform in front of the home crowd and determined to bring the trophy back to India. The two-time champions last lifted the title in 2016 in Lucknow.

The Indian squad, led by defender Rohit and coached by legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, touched down in Chennai on Saturday ahead of the marquee event, which will be co-hosted by Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10.

“We are very happy to arrive in Chennai for this prestigious tournament. We have prepared for months and are excited to compete against the world’s best. We will give it everything on the field,” Rohit said in a statement.

Calling Tamil Nadu a land with a “strong hockey culture,” the skipper urged fans to pack the stadiums and cheer for the team.

Placed in Pool B, India will face Chile, Switzerland and Oman as they begin their campaign. The young squad enters the World Cup on the back of a strong performance at the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia, where they clinched the silver medal.

Teammate Amir Ali shared Rohit’s enthusiasm, saying it was an honour to represent India at home. “Almost a decade ago, India won the World Cup as hosts. We will try our best to repeat history in Chennai. The team is confident and will continue our preparations here to be fully ready for the challenges,” he said.

India will kick off their World Cup journey against Chile on November 28, followed by matches against Oman on November 29 and Switzerland on December 2, as they chase their long-awaited return to the top of junior world hockey.