In a significant development for Indian junior hockey, defender Amir Ali has been appointed captain of the 18-member squad for the prestigious Sultan of Johor Cup. Rohit will serve as his deputy in this tournament, which also marks the debut of legendary Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh as head coach. The tournament is set to take place in Malaysia, starting from October 19.
Tough Competition ahead in Malaysia
The Indian hockey team will begin their campaign against Japan on October 19, before taking on other strong contenders such as Great Britain (October 20), hosts Malaysia (October 22), Australia (October 23), and New Zealand (October 25). The top two teams will advance to the final, scheduled for October 26.
This tournament will be crucial for the team as it serves as preparation for the Men’s Junior Asia Cup in Muscat, Oman, in November. The players are eager to put up a strong performance in Malaysia, with Captain Amir Ali emphasising the importance of this event.
“The Sultan of Johor Cup is an important tournament in our calendar as always. The tournament will serve as a litmus test for the team ahead of the Men’s Junior Asia Cup Muscat 2024,” said Amir in a Hockey India statement.
PR Sreejesh coaching debut
PR Sreejesh, one of India’s most accomplished hockey players, makes his debut as head coach, a move that has generated excitement within the team. Vice-captain Rohit expressed his eagerness to play under Sreejesh’s guidance, stating, “We have an Indian hockey legend taking charge of the team, and the whole team is raring to go. PR Sreejesh is one of the most experienced players to play for India, and we look forward to making him proud in our first tournament.”
Players to watch in Sultan of Johor Cup
Amir Ali and forward Gurjot Singh were standout performers in the senior team during the Asian Champions Trophy, with Amir impressively stepping in for an injured defender and Gurjot leading the forward line. Both players will play pivotal roles in the team’s success at the Sultan of Johor Cup.
The squad includes a mix of experienced and young talent, with promising players such as Shardanand Tiwari, Arshdeep Singh, and Dilraj Singh expected to shine in Malaysia.
Full India Hockey Team Squad for Sultan Johor Cup
Goalkeepers: Bikramjit Singh, Ali Khan
Defenders: Amir Ali (C), Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Sukhvinder, Anmol Ekka, Rohit (VC)
Midfielders: Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Mukesh Toppo, Chandan Yadav
Forwards: Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd. Konain Dad
With a mix of leadership and youthful energy, the Indian junior team is set to showcase their skills on the international stage, making Sreejesh’s coaching debut a highly anticipated event.
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