Title and World Cup Qualification at Stake
The Indian junior women’s hockey team is all set to begin its Asia Cup journey with a match against Bangladesh on Sunday. The tournament, scheduled from December 7 to 15, is crucial as it serves as a qualifier for the 2025 Junior World Cup in Chile.
India enters the competition as the defending champions, aiming to retain their title and secure a direct spot in the Junior World Cup. Last year, the team claimed its maiden title by defeating South Korea 2-1 in the final.
Team Composition and Leadership
Led by captain Jyoti Singh and vice-captain Sakshi Rana, the team is guided by coach Tushar Khandekar. The squad includes standout players like Deepika, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Sunita Toppo, and Mumtaz Khan, who have gained senior team experience since last year’s victory.
🏑 Mark your calendars, hockey fans🗓️🔥
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 5, 2024
The champions are ready to reign again 🏆✨ After last year’s spectacular triumph, our young stars are ready to defend their title at the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2024. 🌟🇮🇳
🗓️ From 7th December to 15th December
📺Watch live on Hockey… pic.twitter.com/VmR8R7j3xe
Tournament Format and Group Stages
India is placed in Pool A alongside China, Malaysia, Thailand, and Bangladesh. Pool B features South Korea, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka. Each team will play every opponent in its group, with the top two teams advancing to the semi-finals and earning automatic qualification for the Junior World Cup.
Teams finishing third and fourth in their respective pools will compete for the final World Cup qualification spot.
Excitement and Determination
Expressing her enthusiasm, captain Jyoti Singh said, “We are excited to take the field and start the tournament strongly. Defending the title will be challenging, but I am confident the team will give its best and make our country proud.”
She added, “This tournament is very important as qualification for the Junior World Cup is at stake. We are determined to win the title again.”
Key Dates to Watch
If India finishes among the top two in Pool A, they will advance to the semi-finals on December 14. The championship final is scheduled for December 15.
The Indian team’s journey in the Asia Cup promises thrilling action as they aim to continue their winning streak and secure their place on the global stage.