Hockey India has announced the 18-member Indian U-18 Men’s squad for the upcoming U-18 Asia Cup Kakamigahara 2026 in Japan, scheduled from May 29 to June 6. The team heads into the tournament after a productive exposure series against Australia in Bhopal, where India registered one win, two draws, and one defeat.
Strong Preparation Before Asia Cup
The Indian side trained under coaches Sardar Singh and Rajnish Mishra during a national camp at the SAI Centre in Bhopal. The Australia series helped the team test its combinations and improve tactical discipline ahead of the continental tournament.
India ended the four-match series on a positive note with a thrilling 3-3 draw. Karan Gautam and Ben Siddharth were among the standout performers during the tour, while the team showed promise in both attack and midfield transitions.
India’s Pool Matches
India will begin its campaign against Kazakhstan on May 29 before facing hosts Japan on May 31. They will then play South Korea on June 1 and Chinese Taipei on June 3. The semi-finals are scheduled for June 5, while the final will be played on June 6.
Full India U-18 Men’s Squad
Goalkeepers:
Sawan Kumar, Ayush Rajak
Defenders:
Ansh Bahutra, Arman Soreng, Ashish Tani Purti, Arshdip Singh, Avi Manikpuri, Romit Pal
Midfielders:
Rahul Yadav, Premchand Soy, Varinder Singh, Karan Gautam, Siddharth Ben
Forwards:
Ketan Kushwaha (Captain), Akash Deep, Gazee Khan, Shahrukh Ali, Prahalad Rajbhar
Big Opportunity for India’s Young Stars
With several players already gaining valuable international exposure against Australia, the upcoming Asia Cup will be an important platform for India’s next generation of hockey talent. India will also enter the tournament as one of the highest-ranked teams in the competition.
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