The squad comprises 18 players along with two alternate players and will be led by midfielder Khaidem Shileima Chanu, having undergone an extensive period of preparation under the guidance of newly appointed coach Tim White, who took charge of the team earlier this year.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
As part of their preparations for the continental tournament, an extended squad recently returned from a productive exposure tour of the United Kingdom. The tour provided the players with valuable international match experience and key learnings, strengthening preparations ahead of the Junior Asia Cup.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The tournament will bring together the continent\u2019s leading junior teams, serving as a key platform for the next generation of Asian hockey talent. The match schedule and pool compositions will be announced closer to the start of the tournament.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI am proud of the commitment and determination these young players have shown in earning their place in the squad for the Junior Asia Cup,\u201d said coach White. \u201cOver the past few months, they have worked tirelessly to improve every aspect of their game, and I have seen them grow both as individuals and as a team.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
White urged the players to make the most of this opportunity and consider it as a launchpad to realise their bigger dreams.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThis tournament is an important opportunity to test ourselves against Asia\u2019s best and continue our journey towards bigger goals. We will approach every match with confidence and discipline. I am confident this group has the talent and character to make the country proud.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Squad:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Goalkeepers: Nidhi, Engil Harsha Rani Minz<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Defenders: Puja Sahoo, Supriya, Pooja Malik, Parwati Topno, Madhu<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Goalkeepers: Nidhi, Engil Harsha Rani Minz<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Forwards: Lalrinpuii, Purnima Yadav, Sukhveer Kaur, Krishna Sharma, Sanika Chandrakant Mane, Madhu Sidar<\/p>\r\n\r\n