Bhubaneswar: As the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team landed in Chennai on November 15, 2025, a quiet but burning confidence followed them. Defender-drag-flicker Rohit, newly appointed captain, spoke of months of preparation and a deep hunger to lift the FIH Junior World Cup on home turf. “We are very happy to arrive… we have been preparing for this moment for many months now,” he said, adding a heartfelt plea: “I urge all the fans to come to the stadium and support us.”
A Balanced Squad — But One Big Absence
Hockey India has announced an 18-member squad for the Junior World Cup, which runs from 28 November to 10 December 2025, with matches in Chennai and Madurai.
The team is led by Captain Rohit, with PR Sreejesh, the former India goalkeeper, as coach.
Goalkeepers: Bikramjit Singh, Princedeep Singh
Defenders: Rohit, Amir Ali, Anmol Ekka, Talem Priyobarta, Sunil Palakshappa Bennur, Shardanand Tiwari
Midfielders: Ankit Pal, Adrohit Ekka, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur
Forwards: Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Arshdeep Singh, Ajeet Yadav, Dilraj Singh, Gurjot Singh
However, one major name is missing: Araijeet Singh Hundal, the prolific forward and drag-flicker, has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury.
Home Advantage & Steady Preparation
India, a two-time Junior World Cup winner, last lifted the trophy in 2016 at Lucknow. Hosting the tournament again is a big deal — the team is eager to make the most of familiar grounds and passionate home fans.
Their preparation hasn’t been superficial: earlier this year, they participated in a Four-Nations Tournament in Berlin, followed by a European tour that included matches in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Coach Sreejesh highlighted a particularly strategic component of their build-up: practice against India’s senior team. “When the players do well against their senior compatriots … they automatically gain confidence,” he said, calling the squad “upbeat” and ready for a strong performance in front of their home crowd.
Pool B: The Road Map to Glory
India’s journey begins in Pool B, where they will face:
Chile (opening match — Nov 28)
Oman
Switzerland
Oman has come in as a replacement for Pakistan this year.
Voices from the Camp
Rohit (Captain): “Tamil Nadu has a great hockey culture … we are excited and optimistic to compete … and give it our all on the field.”
Amir Ali (Teammate): “It is an honour to play the World Cup on home soil … we will try our best to repeat history in Chennai … the team is very confident … we will continue our training … and ensure we are fully ready for the challenges ahead.”
Stakes & Significance
This edition of the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup (13th / 14th edition) is historic: it features 24 teams, the most ever in the tournament.
India is aiming for their third junior world title, having won earlier in 2001 and 2016.
Why This Matters
1. Home Pressure = Opportunity
Playing in India brings huge support – but also big expectations. The young colts know the eyes of the nation are on them.
2. A Balanced Team
With a mix of experienced defenders, dynamic midfielders, and fresh forwards, the squad seems well-rounded. Sreejesh’s emphasis on mental strength suggests they want more than just physical talent.
3. Missing the Star Forward
Losing Hundal is a blow. He was key in set-pieces and scoring. How India navigates that void will be closely watched.
4. Legacy and Continuity
With Sreejesh at the helm, and young players gaining exposure to senior-level play, this tournament could be a stepping stone for future Indian hockey stars.
India’s junior team steps onto the global stage with a clear mission: win it at home. Under Rohit’s leadership, backed by a seasoned coach and a spirited squad, they’re not just participating — they’re aiming to conquer. If their preparation, resolve, and home advantage combine well, this could be a World Cup campaign to remember.
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