Coach PR Sreejesh selected a balanced group with strong experience from recent international matches. Defender and dragflicker Rohit will lead the team after a solid performance in the Sultan of Johor Cup, where India won silver. Goalkeepers Bikramjit Singh and Princedeep Singh strengthen the backline.

The defence features Amir Ali, Anmol Ekka, Talem Priyobarta, Sunil Bennur, and Shardanand Tiwari. In midfield, the team includes Ankit Pal, Adrohit Ekka, Thounaojam Luwang, Manmeet Singh, and Rosan Kujur. The forwardline is paced by Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Arshdeep Singh, Ajeet Yadav, Dilraj Singh, and Gurjot, who already has senior team experience.

Coach Sreejesh said the selections focus on skill, physical strength, and the mental ability to handle pressure. He added that training alongside the senior team in Bengaluru boosted confidence.

India will miss talented forward Araijeet Singh Hundal due to a shoulder injury, but the squad remains confident and motivated for a strong campaign at home.

The post Hockey India Names Junior World Cup Squad appeared first on India Podcast.

This cordial interaction stood in sharp contrast to last month’s Asia Cup cricket tournament, where Indian and Pakistani players avoided any on-field gestures. During that event, the Indian cricket team led by Suryakumar Yadav skipped the customary handshake with their Pakistani counterparts following Operation Sindoor. They later dedicated their victory to the families affected by the Pahalgam terror attack.

India also declined to receive the Asia Cup trophy from PCB and ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi, who currently serves as Pakistan’s interior minister. Reflecting on the situation, Yadav had said, “Delhi is still far. We will see what happens when we play Pakistan next.”

Meanwhile, the atmosphere at the Sultan of Johor Cup was calm and competitive. The Pakistan Hockey Federation had reportedly instructed its players to stay focused on the game and avoid confrontation, ensuring a smooth and respectful contest.

The post India, Pakistan Play Out 3-3 Draw at Sultan of Johor Cup appeared first on India Podcast.