The prestigious tournament, scheduled to take place in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, from October 11 to 18, will see India aiming to reclaim their position at the top of the podium and uphold their rich legacy in the competition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India is the second most successful team in the history of the Sultan of Johor Cup, having won the title three times (2013, 2014, and 2022). Only Great Britain, with four titles, have lifted the trophy more often. The Indian junior men have also secured four Silver medals (2012, 2015, 2018, 2019) and two Bronze medals (2023 and 2024) \u2014 a testament to their remarkable consistency and pedigree in this marquee junior event.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking ahead of the tournament, coach PR Sreejesh said, \u201cThe Sultan of Johor Cup has always been a special tournament for us \u2014 it\u2019s where many of our current senior players first made their mark. It provides young players with the perfect stage to test themselves against the best in the world and understand what it takes to perform consistently at the international level.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cOur preparation has been focused on building a well-balanced team \u2014 one that can combine structure with creativity, and discipline with aggression. The boys have trained with great intensity over the past few weeks, and there is a strong sense of purpose in the group. This tournament will also serve as a great platform to prepare for the Junior World Cup later this year. Facing strong teams in this tournament will give the players valuable experience and a real feel of top-level competition,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe respect every opponent, but our focus is on playing our brand of hockey \u2014 fast, fearless, and intelligent. The team knows the legacy India holds in this tournament, and the players are determined to uphold that tradition and aim for nothing less than the top,\u201d Sreejesh concluded.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In the upcoming edition, India will begin their campaign against Great Britain on October 11, which promises to be an exciting clash as two of the most successful teams in the tournament's history will face each other.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe respect every opponent, but our focus is on playing our brand of hockey \u2014 fast, fearless, and intelligent. The team knows the legacy India holds in this tournament, and the players are determined to uphold that tradition and aim for nothing less than the top,\u201d Sreejesh concluded.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The top two teams at the end of the round-robin stage will battle for the title in the Final on October 18.<\/p>\r\n\r\n