Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team Announced for AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026

Hockey India has officially announced the Indian junior women's team for the upcoming AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026, scheduled to take place in Moqi, China. The squad, led by midfielder Khaidem Shileima Chanu, includes 18 players and two alternates. Under the guidance of new coach Tim White, the team has been preparing intensively, including a recent exposure tour in the UK. This tournament will showcase top junior teams from Asia, providing a significant platform for young talent. Coach White expressed pride in the players' commitment and urged them to view this opportunity as a stepping stone towards their future aspirations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 6, 2026, 23:41 IST

Announcement of the Junior Women's Team

On August 6, Hockey India revealed the roster for the Indian junior women's team set to compete in the AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026, taking place in Moqi, China, from August 30 to September 13, 2026.

The team consists of 18 players along with two alternates, and will be captained by midfielder Khaidem Shileima Chanu. The squad has been preparing rigorously under the new head coach, Tim White, who assumed his role earlier this year, as stated in a press release.

Recently, the extended squad returned from a successful exposure tour in the United Kingdom, which provided them with essential international match experience and valuable insights, enhancing their readiness for the upcoming Junior Asia Cup.

This tournament will feature top junior teams from across Asia, serving as a vital platform for emerging hockey talent in the region. Details regarding the match schedule and pool arrangements will be disclosed as the tournament date approaches.

Coach White expressed pride in the dedication and effort displayed by the young athletes in securing their spots on the team for the Junior Asia Cup. He noted, “They have worked diligently to refine every aspect of their game, and I have witnessed their growth both individually and collectively.”

He encouraged the players to seize this opportunity as a stepping stone towards achieving their larger aspirations. “This tournament is a crucial chance to challenge ourselves against Asia's elite and to further our journey towards greater objectives. We will approach each match with confidence and discipline. I believe this group possesses the talent and spirit to make our nation proud,” he added.

The Squad:

Goalkeepers: Nidhi, Engil Harsha Rani Minz

Defenders: Puja Sahoo, Supriya, Pooja Malik, Parwati Topno, Madhu

Midfielders: Khaidem Shileima Chanu (C), Tanuja Toppo, Binima Dhan, Roshni Aind, Geeta Yadav

Forwards: Lalrinpuii, Purnima Yadav, Sukhveer Kaur, Krishna Sharma, Sanika Chandrakant Mane, Madhu Sidar

Alternate Players: F Lalbiaksiami, Tanushree Dinesh Kadu.