Indian Junior Men's Hockey Team Announced for 4 Nations Tournament in Berlin
Indian Junior Men's Hockey Team Set for Berlin Challenge
The Indian Junior Men's Hockey Team has been officially announced by Hockey India for the upcoming 4 Nations Tournament, taking place in Berlin, Germany, from June 21 to June 25. This prestigious event will see India compete against formidable teams including Spain, Australia, and the host nation, Germany.
In this tournament format, each participating team will engage in a single round-robin stage, facing all other teams. The top two teams will advance to the Final, while the teams finishing third and fourth will compete in a classification match.
This tournament is particularly significant as it serves as a crucial preparatory event for the Indian Colts ahead of the FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup 2025, which is scheduled to be held in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10.
Leading the Indian squad is the dynamic forward Araijeet Singh Hundal, recognized for his impressive attacking skills and leadership. The Vice-Captain role has been assigned to defender Amir Ali, who brings valuable experience and composure to the team.
The goalkeeping duties will be handled by Bikramjit Singh and Vivek Lakra, both of whom have demonstrated excellent reflexes and control during training sessions.
The defensive lineup combines strength and potential, featuring Amir Ali alongside Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Sunil P B, Anmol Ekka, Rohit, Ravneet Singh, and Sukhvinder. The midfield is robust and versatile, including Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Rohit Kullu, Thockchom Kingson Singh, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Adrohit Ekka, and Jeetpal, all capable of influencing the game's tempo.
The forward line is packed with talent, comprising Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, captain Araijeet Singh Hundal, and Ajeet Yadav, promising a blend of speed, creativity, and scoring ability.
Additionally, Adarsh G (goalkeeper), Prasant Barla (defender), Chandan Yadav (midfielder), and Mohd. Konain Dad (forward) have been designated as standby players for the tournament.
Commenting on the tournament and the selected squad, Indian Junior Men's Team Coach PR Sreejesh stated, "The 4 Nations Tournament is a crucial component of our preparation for the FIH Junior World Cup later this year. Competing against top-tier international teams will provide our young players with invaluable experience in a competitive environment, essential for their development. This tour focuses less on immediate results and more on preparing these athletes for future challenges. Facing quality sides like Germany, Australia, and Spain will test our players tactically, physically, and mentally, shaping them into world-class athletes."
He further added, "We have assembled a squad that balances energy and potential. This tour will enable us to refine our strategies, experiment with different combinations, and allow players to take charge in critical match situations. The insights gained will be crucial as we gear up for the Junior World Cup at home."
Indian Junior Men's Squad for the 4 Nations Tournament:
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.