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Hockey India announced the Indian junior men’s team for the Four Nations Tournament in Berlin from June 21-25.
The Indian Junior Men’s Squad. (Picture Credit: Hockey India)
Hockey India announced on Tuesday the Indian junior men’s team for the upcoming Four Nations Tournament, scheduled to take place in Berlin, Germany, from June 21-25. This esteemed competition will feature four formidable teams: India, Spain, Australia, and hosts Germany.
The tournament format will see each team competing against every other team in a single round-robin Pool stage. The top two teams will advance to the final, while the third and fourth-placed teams will contest a classification match.
Importantly, this tournament serves as a crucial preparatory platform for the Indian Colts ahead of the FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup 2025, which will be held on home soil in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10.
The Indian squad will be led by the dynamic forward Araijeet Singh Hundal, renowned for his attacking prowess and leadership skills. Defender Amir Ali, celebrated for his composure and experience, has been named Vice-Captain.
The goalkeeping responsibilities will be handled by Bikramjit Singh and Vivek Lakra, both of whom have demonstrated sharp reflexes and strong command of the D during training sessions.
The defensive lineup features a blend of grit and promise, with Amir Ali joined by Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Sunil P B, Anmol Ekka, Rohit, Ravneet Singh, and Sukhvinder. The midfield boasts depth and versatility with players like Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Rohit Kullu, Thockchom Kingson Singh, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Adrohit Ekka, and Jeetpal, all capable of dictating the tempo and transitioning play.
The forward unit includes Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, captain Araijeet Singh Hundal, and Ajeet Yadav, who promise speed, flair, and a strong goal-scoring threat.
Additionally, Adarsh G (goalkeeper), Prasant Barla (defender), Chandan Yadav (midfielder), and Mohd. Konain Dad (forward) have been named as standby players for the tour.
Commenting on the tournament and the squad, Indian junior men’s team coach PR Sreejesh said, “The 4 Nations Tournament is a significant part of our preparation roadmap for the FIH Junior World Cup later this year. It will give us the chance to play against top-quality international opponents in a competitive setting, which is crucial for the development of these young players.
“This tour is less about results and more about preparing these young athletes for the bigger picture. Competing against quality international sides like Germany, Australia, and Spain will challenge our boys in different ways — tactically, physically, and mentally. These are the kind of experiences that shape world-class players.”
“We have picked a squad that brings a healthy balance of energy and potential. This tour will allow us to sharpen our strategies, experiment with combinations, and give players the opportunity to take ownership in critical match situations. These learnings will be invaluable for players as we build towards the Junior World Cup at home,” he added.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Bikramjit Singh, Vivek Lakra.
Defenders: Amir Ali (Vice-Captain), Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Sunil P B, Anmol Ekka, Rohit, Ravneet Singh, Sukhvinder.
Midfielders: Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Rohit Kullu, Thockchom Kingson Singh, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Adrohit Ekka, Jeetpal.
Forwards: Araijeet Singh Hundal (Captain), Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Ajeet Yadav.
(with IANS inputs)
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