Sardar Singh and Rani Lead India's U-18 Hockey Teams in Australia Series

Sardar Singh and Rani are at the helm of India's U-18 hockey teams as they prepare for a four-match series against Australia in Bhopal. Both coaches have praised Hockey India's commitment to grassroots development and the importance of early international exposure for young players. The series, which begins on May 15, is seen as a crucial opportunity for these athletes to gain valuable experience ahead of the Men's and Women's U-18 Asia Cup 2026. With matches scheduled throughout the week, the teams are set to showcase their skills against a formidable opponent.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 15, 2026, 15:53 IST

Investment in Youth Development

Sardar Singh and Rani have commended Hockey India's ongoing commitment to grassroots development and youth engagement as they mentor the next generation of players. Currently, Sardar oversees the India U-18 men's team, while Rani leads the women's team. They are preparing to compete against the Australian U-18 teams in a four-match series at SAI Bhopal, which serves as a preparatory tour for the upcoming Men's and Women's U-18 Asia Cup 2026, set to take place later this month in Kakamigahara, Japan.

Sardar Singh Praises Hockey India's Vision

During a press conference prior to the U-18 series starting on May 15, both coaches expressed their enthusiasm for being part of Hockey India's structured development initiatives. Sardar remarked, "This initiative by Hockey India is crucial at this stage, as nurturing young talent early is vital. These players are the future representatives of India."

He further emphasized Hockey India's efforts in promoting the sport at all levels, stating, "Hockey India is excelling at the grassroots level through annual Sub Junior and Junior National Championships across various divisions. They are also providing kits to players nationwide. With continued improvements in infrastructure, coaching, and support systems, Indian hockey can achieve remarkable success."

Rani Highlights the Need for Early International Exposure

Rani echoed Sardar's views, acknowledging Hockey India for facilitating early international exposure for young athletes. "I appreciate Hockey India for these U-18 initiatives. It’s unprecedented for players in this age group to compete against a team like Australia. This experience is invaluable for their growth," she noted.

She also stressed the significance of acclimating players to a national team environment from a young age, mentioning, "The average age of these girls is around 15-16 years. They have promising futures ahead, potentially representing India in events like the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2032 and 2036 Olympics. Early exposure will significantly aid their development."

Schedule for India vs Australia U-18 Series

The India U-18 men's and women's teams will engage in four matches against their Australian counterparts in Bhopal. The match schedule is as follows:

Men's Matches:

- India vs Australia - 15th May, 5:00 PM IST (Friday)

- India vs Australia - 17th May, 7:00 PM IST (Sunday)

- India vs Australia - 18th May, 5:00 PM IST (Monday)

- India vs Australia - 20th May, 10:00 AM IST (Wednesday)

Women's Matches:

- India vs Australia - 15th May, 7:00 PM IST (Friday)

- India vs Australia - 17th May, 5:00 PM IST (Sunday)

- India vs Australia - 18th May, 7:30 PM IST (Monday)

- India vs Australia - 20th May, 8:00 AM IST (Wednesday).