Indian sports wrap, May 7: Hockey India announces squads for U-18 series against Australia in Bhopal
HOCKEY
Hockey India announces squads for U-18 series against Australia in Bhopal
Hockey India on Thursday announced the 24-member Indian U-18 men’s and women’s squads for the upcoming series against Australia, scheduled to be held at the Udhav Das Mehta SAI Central Centre in Bhopal from May 15 to 20.
The four-match series forms a key part of the teams’ preparations for the Men’s and Women’s U-18 Asia Cup Kakamigahara 2026 in Japan, which will be held from May 29 to June 6.
The final squads were selected after a week-long evaluation during the national coaching camp, where the initial group of 42 players was reduced based on match fitness and tactical adaptability.
Forward Ketan Kushwaha has been named captain of the Indian U-18 men’s side, while Sweety Kujur will lead the women’s team.
The men’s sub-junior team is being coached by former India captain Sardar Singh and Rajnish Mishra.
Speaking about the upcoming series, Sardar 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 side continues to train under former India captain Rani.
Speaking on the squad selection, Rani 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
– Team Sportstar
Published on May 07, 2026