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India U-18 Hockey Teams Set for Crucial Series Against Australia Ahead of Asia Cup

The Indian men's and women's U-18 hockey teams will play a four-match series against Australia's U-18 teams from May 15 to 20 at the Udhav Das Mehta Central Centre in Bhopal. The series follows the U-18 National Coaching Camp at SAI Bhopal, which began on April 19, 2026. Men's coach Sardar Singh emphasized the importance of these exposure matches for testing combinations and building match temperament ahead of the U-18 Asia Cup. Women's coach Rani Rampal highlighted the opportunity for players to showcase their skills and prepare for the upcoming tournament.

Key Points: India U-18 Hockey vs Australia: 4-Match Series Preview

  • India U-18 men's and women's hockey teams play 4-match series against Australia
  • Series runs from May 15-20 at Udhav Das Mehta Central Centre, Bhopal
  • Matches follow U-18 National Coaching Camp at SAI Bhopal
  • Series serves as preparation for U-18 Asia Cup in Kakamigahara
2 min read

India U-18 men & women to play 4-match series against Australia ahead of Hockey Asia Cup

Indian men's and women's U-18 hockey teams face Australia in a 4-match series from May 15-20 in Bhopal, serving as key preparation for the U-18 Asia Cup.

"The upcoming exposure matches against Australia's U18 teams are an important step in our preparation. - Sardar Singh"

Bhopal, May 5

The Indian men's and women's U-18 hockey teams will each take on Australia's U-18 teams in a four-match series from May 15 to 20 at the Udhav Das Mehta Central Centre here. The exposure series follows the U-18 National Coaching Camp, which began at SAI Bhopal on April 19, 2026, and will serve as vital preparation for the U18 Asia Cup in Kakamigahara, beginning later this month.

For the women's team, the four-match series against Australia will begin on May 15, followed by the second match on May 17. The third game is scheduled for May 18, while the final encounter will be played on May 20.

The men's team will begin their series on May 15, followed by their second match on May 17. The third game will be played on May 18, while the series concludes with the last fixture on May 20.

Men's coach Sardar Singh highlighted the progress made during the camp and the importance of the upcoming matches, saying, "We've had a very productive phase here at SAI Bhopal, and the players have responded well to the intensity and expectations. A key focus during this camp has been to strengthen their fundamentals and basics across all positions, so they are better prepared for the demands of modern hockey and can steadily progress towards the senior level.

The upcoming exposure matches against Australia's U18 teams are an important step in our preparation. It's a valuable opportunity for the group to experience high-quality international competition, test combinations, and build match temperament. With the U18 Asia Cup on the horizon, these fixtures will play a key role in helping us identify the best possible squad to represent India."

Women's Coach Rani Rampal echoed a similar sentiment, adding, "The camp at SAI Bhopal has been a good phase for us to work with the players, and we're happy with how they've approached it. The matches against Australia's U-18 team will give them a great chance to play at a higher level and prepare for the U-18 Asia Cup. It's an opportunity for each player to showcase their ability and what they have learned."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
So proud to see Rani Rampal coaching our young girls! She's an inspiration for millions. This exposure series will really help them understand international hockey standards. Hope we dominate the U-18 Asia Cup! 💪
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James A
Good to see hockey development at the grassroots. Australia's junior teams are always well-structured. This should be a great learning experience for both sides. Looking forward to competitive matches.
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Aman W
Wish we could get more such series against top teams like Australia, Netherlands, and Germany. Our junior players need consistent international exposure, not just before major tournaments. Still, better late than never! 🏑
N
Neha E
The U-18 Asia Cup in Japan will be tough. Having these friendlies against Australia is perfect timing. Sardar Singh's emphasis on fundamentals is exactly what we need. Our hockey future looks promising!
R
Rahul R
Impressive that both men's and women's teams are getting equal preparation. But I hope Hockey India focuses on grassroots development in smaller cities and villages too. Bhopal is a great start, but we need more such centers across India.
M
Michael C
Australian junior hockey teams are known for their physicality and technical skills. This will be a

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