Hockey India has revealed the 18-member U-18 men’s squad for the Men’s U18 Asia Cup happening from May 29 to June 6 in Kakamigahara, Japan. The squad was chosen after a demanding National Coaching Camp at SAI Bhopal, led by coaches Sardar Singh and Rajnish Mishra. India is placed in Pool A alongside South Korea, hosts Japan, Chinese Taipei, and Kazakhstan for the tournament.
The Indian team will commence their pool-stage matches on May 29 against Kazakhstan, followed by games against Japan on May 31, South Korea on June 1, and Chinese Taipei on June 3. The top two teams from Pool A and Pool B will progress to the semi-finals on June 5, with the final set for June 6. The squad’s preparations included a series against the Australia U-18 team in Bhopal as part of their training.
Ketan Kushwaha will lead the Asia Cup side, aiming to compete against top youth teams in Asia. The team recently played a series against Australia U18, winning one match, losing one, and drawing two. Coach Sardar Singh expressed satisfaction with the squad selection, emphasizing the tactical balance and preparation undertaken. The team is focused on executing their plans effectively, topping their group, and striving to win the tournament.
