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Jharkhand Defends Title in Thrilling Sub-Junior Women's Hockey Final

Hockey Jharkhand successfully defended their crown by defeating Hockey Madhya Pradesh 2-1 in a closely contested final of the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women National Championship. The winning goal was scored by Sewani Kerketta in the 56th minute, breaking a 1-1 deadlock. Earlier, the Hockey Association of Odisha secured the bronze medal with a 4-2 victory over Uttar Pradesh Hockey. Jharkhand's campaign was flawless, as they remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.

Key Points: Jharkhand Wins Sub-Junior Women's Hockey National Championship

  • Jharkhand defends national title
  • 2-1 win over Madhya Pradesh in final
  • Odisha secures bronze medal
  • Sandeepa Kumari top scorer with 5 goals
2 min read

Hockey Jharkhand clinch gold medal at 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women National Championship 2026

Hockey Jharkhand defends its title, beating Madhya Pradesh 2-1 in the final of the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women National Championship 2026.

"Sewani Kerketta (56') who rose to the occasion, netting a crucial field goal in the dying minutes to seal the title for the hosts."

Ranchi, April 12

Hockey Jharkhand successfully defended their title to emerge champions of the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women National Championship 2026 in Ranchi, Jharkhand, after defeating Hockey Madhya Pradesh in a closely fought Division 'A' final, according to a release.

Meanwhile, the Hockey Association of Odisha secured the Bronze medal, overcoming Uttar Pradesh Hockey in the 3rd/4th place match.

The summit clash lived up to expectations, with hosts Hockey Jharkhand edging past Hockey Madhya Pradesh 2-1 in a gripping encounter. Sugan Sanga (5') handed Jharkhand an early advantage by converting a penalty corner, but Nammi Geethasri (37') brought Madhya Pradesh back on level terms in the second half. With both teams locked at 1-1 and pushing hard for a winner, it was Sewani Kerketta (56') who rose to the occasion, netting a crucial field goal in the dying minutes to seal the title for the hosts.

Jharkhand's triumph was built on a flawless campaign, as they remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. They topped Pool A with two wins from two matches before registering identical 2-0 victories in the quarter-final and semi-final against Hockey Punjab and Uttar Pradesh Hockey, respectively. Sandeepa Kumari emerged as their leading scorer, finishing the tournament with five goals.

Earlier in the day, the Hockey Association of Odisha defeated Uttar Pradesh Hockey 4-2 in the 3rd/4th place match of Division 'A' to clinch the bronze medal.

Priyanka Minz (8', 18') starred with a brace, giving her side a strong early advantage with two well-taken field goals. Priya Princess Ekka (22') and Archana Kujur (27') further extended Odisha's lead, putting them firmly in control of the contest.

For Uttar Pradesh, captain Arika Kumari (29') pulled one back through a penalty stroke, while Mamta Kumari (58') converted a penalty corner in the dying minutes. However, Odisha's early dominance proved decisive as they secured a well-earned podium finish.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Jharkhand's hockey system is producing some serious talent. An unbeaten campaign is no small feat. Sandeepa Kumari with 5 goals! Hope these girls get the right support and exposure to represent India one day.
A
Arika Kumari
As a player from UP, it's disappointing to miss out on a medal, but congratulations to Jharkhand and Odisha. The level of competition is rising every year, which is great for the sport. We'll come back stronger!
S
Siddharth J
Great to see Odisha winning bronze! The state is investing so much in hockey infrastructure. Priyanka Minz's early brace was crucial. While the focus is often on the winner, a podium finish is a huge achievement for these young athletes.
M
Michael C
Following from the US. It's inspiring to read about this level of grassroots competition. A closely fought final with a last-minute goal is what makes sport beautiful. Well done to all the teams and organizers in Ranchi.
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Kavya N
While the victory is sweet, I hope the media gives this as much coverage as they give to cricket. These tournaments are the foundation for future Olympians. The article mentions great names like Kerketta and Kujur – we need to know their stories too!
N
Nikhil C

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