New Delhi, 06 August (H.S.): Hockey India on Thursday announced the Indian junior women’s hockey team for the AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026, scheduled to be held from August 30 to September 13 in Mokie, China.

A total of 18 players have been selected in the squad, while two players have been included as alternates.

Midfielder Khaidem Shileima Chanu will lead the team as captain. Under the guidance of head coach Tim White, the squad has undergone intensive preparation over the past few months. Since taking charge of the team this year, White has overseen significant improvements in the players’ performances and overall development.

As part of their preparations for the continental tournament, the Indian junior women’s team recently returned from an exposure tour of the United Kingdom, where the players gained valuable international match experience, further strengthening their preparations for the Junior Asia Cup.

Speaking after the team announcement, head coach Tim White said, I am proud that these young players have earned their places in the team through hard work, dedication, and determination. Over the past few months, they have worked tirelessly to improve every aspect of their game, and I have seen them grow both individually and as a team.

He added, This tournament will provide an important opportunity to test ourselves against the best junior teams in Asia and move closer towards our larger goals. We will approach every match with confidence and discipline. I believe this team has the talent and determination to make the country proud.

The tournament will feature the top junior teams from across Asia. The complete schedule and pool details will be announced at a later date.

Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team:

Goalkeepers:

Nidhi, Angil Harsha Rani Minz

Defenders:

Pooja Sahu, Supriya, Pooja Malik, Parvati Topno, Madhu

Midfielders:

Khaidem Shileima Chanu (Captain), Tanuja Toppo, Binima Dhan, Roshni Aind, Geeta Yadav

Forwards:

Lalrinpuii, Purnima Yadav, Sukhveer Kaur, Krishna Sharma, Sanika Chandrakant Mane, Madhu Sidar

Alternate Players:

F. Lalbiakxiami, Tanushree Dinesh Kadu.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar