Times of India: Indian hockey squad for Women Under 18 Asia Cup announced

NEW DELHI: Hockey India (HI) on Tuesday announced an 18-member squad for the 4th Women Under-18 Asia Cup to be held in Bangkok from December 16-22.

The team will be led by midfielder Udita and defender Salima Tete will be her deputy.

Fresh from her stint with the Under-18 national side in the recently concluded series against Australia, 14-year-old Salima will be a key member in the Indian defence that will have other members Ritu, Neelu Dadiya, T. Suman Devi, and Gagandeep Kaur.

The goalkeepers in the squad are Divya Thepe and Alpha Kerketta.

The midfield will see young talents including Udita, Manpreet Kaur, Jyoti, Mariana Kujur, Mahima Choudhary, and Lalremsiami. The forward line will include Sangita Kumari, Poonam, Leelavathy Mallamada Jaya, Rajwinder Kaur, and Mumtaz Khan.

An enthusiastic group of young players, the girls are upbeat and confident before the tournament.

Captain Udita said: “This is a very good learning opportunity for young players like us. The team is really looking forward to playing in Bangkok. We are playing well as a unit and will put our best foot forward against our opponents.”

Goalkeepers: Divya Thepe, Alpha Kerketta.

Defenders: Salima Tete (vice captain), Ritu, Neelu Dadiya, T. Suman Devi, Gagandeep Kaur.

Midfielders: Udita (captain), Manpreet Kaur, Jyoti, Mariana Kujur, Mahima Choudhary, Lalremsiami.

Forwards: Sangita Kumari, Poonam, Leelavathy Mallamada Jaya, Rajwinder Kaur, Mumtaz Khan.