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Hockey India Names U-18 Squads for Australia Series in Bhopal

Hockey India announced the 24-member Indian U-18 men's and women's squads for a four-match series against Australia in Bhopal from May 15-20. The series is a critical part of preparations for the U-18 Asia Cup in Japan in 2026. Ketan Kushwaha will captain the men's team, while Sweety Kujur leads the women's side. Former players Sardar Singh and Rani are mentoring the respective teams.

Key Points: India U-18 Hockey Squads for Australia Series Announced

  • India U-18 men's and women's squads announced for Australia series
  • Series held in Bhopal from May 15-20
  • Ketan Kushwaha leads men's, Sweety Kujur leads women's
  • Series is final prep for U-18 Asia Cup in Japan
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Hockey India names U18 men's & women's squads for series against Australia in Bhopal

Hockey India announces 24-member U-18 men's and women's squads for a four-match series against Australia in Bhopal, starting May 15. Key preparation for Asia Cup.

"These matches against Australia are not just practice games; they are a vital test of our match temperament and tactical discipline. - Sardar Singh"

Bhopal, May 7

Hockey India on Thursday announced the 24-member Indian U-18 men's and women's squads for the upcoming high-intensity series against Australia, scheduled to take place at the Udhav Das Mehta SAI Central Centre in Bhopal from May 15 to 20.

The four-match series is a critical part of the teams' final preparations for the Men's and Women's U-18 Asia Cup Kakamigahara (Japan) 2026, from 29th May to 6th June 2026. The final 24 players in each squad were selected after a week of rigorous evaluation during the National Coaching Camp, where the initial group of 42 players was narrowed down based on match fitness and tactical adaptability.

Forward Ketan Kushwaha has been named captain of the Indian U-18 men's team, while the Indian U-18 women's side will be led by Sweety Kujur.

The Men's Sub Junior team is being guided by former Indian hockey player Sardar Singh and Rajnish Mishra. Commenting on the upcoming matches, Sardar Singh said, "After a productive week in the camp, we have identified the 24 players whom we believe are ready for international exposure. These matches against Australia are not just practice games; they are a vital test of our match temperament and tactical discipline. Ketan is a natural leader on the pitch, and I am keen to see how this group handles the pace and pressure of the Australian style before we head to the U-18 Asia Cup in Japan."

The women's team continues its training under the mentorship of former Indian Captain Rani. Speaking on the squad selection, she said, "We have pruned the squad to 24 players who have shown the greatest consistency and growth during the camp. Sweety has the experience and vision required to lead this young side effectively. Playing four matches against a top-tier side like Australia in Bhopal will give us a clear picture of our strengths and the areas that need adjustment. This series is the ultimate dress rehearsal for the girls before the Asia Cup."

Indian U-18 Men's Squad:

Goalkeepers: Sawan Kumar, Ayush Rajak, Vishal Bada

Defenders: Ansh Bahutra, Ashish Tani Purti, Arman Soreng, Deepakprakash Toppo, Karan Gautam, Karan Dhanuk

Midfielders: Premchand Soy, Rahul Yadav, Varinder Singh, Romit Pal, Arjandeep Singh, Gursimranpreet Singh, Arshdip Singh, Avi Manikpuri

Forwards: Akash Deep, Ketan Kushwaha (Captain), Shahrukh Ali, Gazee Khan, Prahalad Rajbhar, Siddharth Ben, Jaysan Kandulna

Indian U-18 Women's Squad:

Goalkeepers: Mahak Parihar, Harry, Khili Kumari

Defenders: Sugan Sanga, Nilam Topno, Rubina Baxla, Kiran Ekka, Divya Yadav, Sulochani

Midfielders: Shruti Kumari, Diya, Harshita, Rashmeen Kaur, Laminganbi Akoijam, Nancy Saroha, Tongbram Lanchenbi Devi, Sneha Davde

Forwards: Nousheen Naz, Sweety Kujur (Captain), Priyanka Minz, Sandeepa Kumari, Nammi Geetashree, Princess Priya Ekka, Pushpa Manjhi

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Wonderful to see Sweety Kujur leading the women's team! And Rani's mentorship is priceless – she knows what it takes to handle pressure at the highest level. These 4 matches against Australia will be crucial for their preparation. Hope the girls get good support from the Bhopal crowd! 💪
J
James A
Impressive effort by Hockey India to organize a high-intensity series like this. The U-18 Asia Cup is a big deal and these matches against Australia will be a real test of temperament. I'm especially curious to see how our defenders handle the Aussie attack – that's where games are often won or lost at this level.
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Vikram M
Good squad selection overall but I wish they had included more players from the North East region – they've been producing some exceptional hockey talent lately. Nevertheless, happy to see names like Arman Soreng and Ansh Bahutra in the defense. Sardar Singh as coach is a big plus, his experience will be invaluable. Hope our boys and girls make us proud in Japan! 🏆
S
Sarah B
Four matches against Australia is a brilliant idea – nothing builds character like playing a physically strong team. Ketan Kushwaha as captain is a bold choice given his age but he has the skills. My only concern is the timing – Asia Cup is just a few weeks after this series, hope they don't get too tired or injured. But overall, great initiative by Hockey India! 👏
K
Kavya N
So proud to see so many young talents getting this opportunity! The women's team in particular looks strong with Sweety Kujur leading and

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