Hockey India-organised Junior Nationals from Sunday
PUNE: Punjab would clash with Puducherry in a Pool H match to kick-start the inaugural Hockey India Junior National championship at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi on Sunday.
Five matches have been scheduled on the opening of the tournament that is to conclude on December 22, with hosts Maharashtra clashing against Tripura in Pool G in the final game of the proceedings.
India coach Michael Nobbs is to witness the 28-team tournament, organised by Maharashtra Hockey, under the aegis of the Hockey India, from the quarterfinal onwards.
“His presence will give a tremendous boost in inspiring the young players to perform up to their potential as Michael Nobbs will take a few days off from the National camp for Olympic Qualifier and watch the youngsters perform here,” said Rekha Bhide, president of Maharashtra Hockey.
“After so many hurdles and years of wait, junior players of the country will finally get a platform to showcase their skills and get noticed on the national scene,” said Manish Anand, head of the organising committee.
“All the matches will be played during the day, with group toppers making it to the quarterfinals. December 20 has been designated as rest day, with semi-finals slated for December 21 and the final and third-place match on December 22,” said HI joint secretary Manoj Bhore.