Bhubaneswar: India’s junior women’s hockey team will head to Chile this November 25-December 13 for the 2025 Women’s Junior World Cup, with Jyoti Singh once again assuming the captain’s armband.
Putting their faith in a balanced squad of 18 players and 2 alternates, the team has been assembled by Hockey India under the guidance of coach Tushar Khandker, who emphasises discipline and tactical structure.
Tough Draw, Clear Goals
India have been placed in Pool C alongside Germany women’s national field hockey team, Ireland women’s national field hockey team and Namibia women’s national field hockey team. The campaign opens with a match against Namibia on December 1, followed by Germany on December 3 and Ireland on December 5.
Coach Khandker elaborated on the selection and preparation:
“I am very happy with the squad and the way they are playing at this moment. My main principle is discipline in hockey … We have worked hard on our defensive structure and finishing inside the opponent’s scoring area.”
He added:
“We are all ready and very excited to travel to Chile. The girls are fully motivated to perform their best at the World Cup.”
Squad Snapshot
Goalkeepers: Nidhi, Engil Harsha Rani Minz.
Defenders: Manisha, Lalthanlualangi, Sakshi Shukla, Puja Sahoo, Nandini.
Midfielders: Sakshi Rana, Ishika, Sunelita Toppo, Jyoti Singh (C), Khaidem Shileima Chanu, Binima Dhan.
Forwards: Sonam, Purnima Yadav, Kanika Siwach, Hina Bano, Sukhveer Kaur.
Alternates: Priyanka Yadav, Parwati Topno.
What to Watch
Captain Jyoti Singh brings calm leadership and experience from previous junior campaigns, while the blend of defenders, midfielders and forwards looks designed for flexibility and balance. With Germany clearly a heavyweight in the draw and Ireland and Namibia providing opportunities to build momentum, this group poses both a challenge and a gateway.
With discipline, structure and finishing front of mind, India’s junior women have set a clear internal benchmark. If they deliver on the pitch what they’ve prepared off it, the Santiago tournament could be a landmark step for this future-stars squad.
Discussion about this post