Indian Women's U-18 Hockey Team Set for Asia Cup Challenge in Japan

Hockey India has unveiled the 18-member squad for the Indian Women's U-18 team, set to compete in the Women's U18 Asia Cup in Japan from May 29 to June 6, 2026. Under the guidance of coach Rani, the team has been rigorously training in Bhopal, focusing on fitness and tactical execution. The squad, led by captain Sweety Kujur, aims to showcase their skills against formidable Asian teams. India is placed in Pool A, facing Malaysia, Korea, and Singapore, with matches scheduled to begin on May 30. This tournament is a crucial opportunity for the young athletes to gain international exposure and experience high-pressure competition.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2026, 13:18 IST

Announcement of the U-18 Squad

On Friday, Hockey India revealed the 18-member squad for the Indian Women's U-18 team, which is gearing up to compete in the Women's U18 Asia Cup in Kakamigahara, Japan, scheduled from May 29 to June 6, 2026.

Preparation and Training

As per the official statement, the team has been preparing intensively at a national camp in Bhopal, where the coaching staff, led by Rani, concentrated on enhancing team dynamics, fitness levels, and tactical skills. This tournament presents a significant opportunity for the young squad, under the captaincy of Sweety Kujur, to measure their skills against some of the top teams in Asia. The team also participated in a four-match series against Australia in Bhopal, concluding with a morale-boosting victory.

India's Pool and Match Schedule

India has been placed in Pool A, alongside Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. The team's first match will be against Malaysia on May 30, followed by a game against Korea on May 31, and they will wrap up the pool stage with a match against Singapore on June 2. The top two teams from both Pool A and B will advance to the semi-finals on June 5, with the final set for June 6.

Coach's Insights on Team Readiness

Coach Rani expressed her thoughts on the squad's preparation, stating that the tournament will serve as an excellent opportunity for the players to gain international experience and understand the pressures of competitive matches. "This tournament is a fantastic platform for these young athletes to gain international exposure and understand the demands of high-pressure matches. We have focused heavily on fitness, tactical structure, and team coordination over the past few weeks. The team is excited and motivated to represent the country, and our aim will be to play fearless hockey and challenge strongly for the title," Rani remarked.

Complete Indian Women's U-18 Squad

Goalkeepers

Mahak Parihar, Khili Kumari

Defenders

Sugan Sanga, Nilam Topno, Rubina Baxla, Kiran Ekka, Sulochani

Midfielders

Shruti Kumari, Diya, Sneha Davde, Rashmeen Kaur, Nammi Geetashree, Pushpa Manjhi

Forwards

Nousheen Naz, Sweety Kujur (captain), Priyanka Minz, Sandeepa Kumari, Nancy Saroha

Match Schedule (All Times IST)

May 30, 2026: India vs Malaysia - 05:30 am

May 31, 2026: India vs Korea - 05:30 am

June 2, 2026: India vs Singapore - 09:30 am

Pool Groupings

Pool A: India, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore

Pool B: China, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Bangladesh.