Hockey India just revealed the 23-player squad for the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey team heading to Australia for an exciting tour. The trip kicks off on September 26 and wraps up on October 2 at the National Hockey Centre in Canberra, giving these young stars a chance to shine on the international stage.
The team will face off in five matches during the tour. They’ll take on the Australia Junior Women’s Team in the first three games, then battle Canberra Chill—a top club from Australia’s Hockey One League—in the final two. This series comes at a perfect time, helping the players build momentum ahead of the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025 in Santiago, Chile, this December.
Leading the charge is Captain Jyoti Singh, who’s already turned heads in the senior team during the FIH Hockey Pro League earlier this year. The squad blends fresh talent from across India, with a strong lineup of defenders, midfielders, and forwards ready to tackle tough competition.
In goal, Nidhi and Engil Harsha Rani Minz will stand tall. The defense features Manisha, Jyoti Singh (C), Lalthantluangi, Mamita Oram, Sakshi Shukla, Puja Sahoo, and Nandni. Midfield duties fall to Priyanka Yadav, Sakshi Rana, Khaidem Shileima Chanu, Rajni Kerketta, Binima Dhan, Ishika, Sunelita Toppo, and Anisha Sahu. Up front, expect fireworks from Lalrinpuii, Nisha Minj, Purnima Yadav, Sonam, Kanika Siwach, and Sukhveer Kaur.
These athletes have been grinding in national training camps, sharpening their skills against strong rivals. The Australia tour offers prime exposure to high-level play, boosting their confidence and game in real international settings.
Coach Tushar Khandker is pumped about the group. "This is a talented bunch of young players who’ve put in the hard work during training," he said. "We’ve balanced the team across all positions with adaptable athletes. They’re young but experienced, and they’ve gelled well together. This tour is a fantastic chance for them to show what they can do and grab that valuable international experience."
Here’s the full Indian Junior Women’s Hockey squad for the Australia Tour:
Goalkeepers: Nidhi, Engil Harsha Rani Minz
Defenders: Manisha, Jyoti Singh (C), Lalthantluangi, Mamita Oram, Sakshi Shukla, Puja Sahoo, Nandni
Midfielders: Priyanka Yadav, Sakshi Rana, Khaidem Shileima Chanu, Rajni Kerketta, Binima Dhan, Ishika, Sunelita Toppo, Anisha Sahu
Forwards: Lalrinpuii, Nisha Minj, Purnima Yadav, Sonam, Kanika Siwach, Sukhveer Kaur
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