Ananya Lohia , Japan - India’s Under-18 boys and girls hockey teams are all set to begin their campaign in the U-18 Asia Cup in Kakamigahara from Friday, with former captains Sardar Singh and Rani Rampal mentoring the young squads. After weeks of intensive training and exposure matches against Australia in Bhopal, both teams will look to make a strong mark in the continental tournament.
The Indian boys’ team, led by forward Ketan Kushwaha, trained at the Udhav Das Mehta Central Centre at SAI, Bhopal, under coaches Sardar Singh and Rajnish Mishra. As part of their preparations, the team played a four-match series against the Australian U-18 side, recording one win, one loss and two draws.
India have been placed in Pool A alongside hosts Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Kazakhstan. They will open their campaign against Kazakhstan on May 29 before facing Japan, Korea and Chinese Taipei. Pool B consists of Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China. The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the semifinals on June 5, while the final will be played on June 6. Ahead of the tournament, captain Ketan Kushwaha said the Bhopal camp and the Australia series helped the team improve as a unit and understand areas that need attention. He added that the squad is motivated to perform well and make the country proud.
The Indian girls’ team, captained by Sweety Kujur, also underwent a productive camp in Bhopal under the guidance of Rani Rampal. The girls too played four matches against Australia and ended the series with a confidence-boosting victory. Placed in Pool A, India will begin their girls’ campaign against Malaysia on May 30, followed by matches against Korea on May 31 and Singapore on June 2. Pool B features China, Japan, Chinese Taipei and Bangladesh.
With experienced former captains Sardar Singh and Rani Rampal guiding the next generation, both Indian teams will aim to turn their strong preparations into success as they chase Asia Cup glory in Kakamigahara.
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