Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team Announced for Australia Tour

New Delhi, Sept 2025 : Hockey India on Saturday announced the 23-member Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team for their upcoming tour of Australia, scheduled from September 26 to October 2, 2025, at the National Hockey Centre in Canberra.

According to Hockey India, the Indian team will play a total of five matches during the tour. The first three games will be against the Australia Junior Women’s Team, followed by two matches against Canberra Chill, a club team competing in Australia’s Hockey One League.

This tour is expected to be an important preparatory step for the team as they gear up for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place in Santiago, Chile, in December.

Team Composition

The squad brings together a balanced combination of defenders, midfielders, and forwards from across the country. Jyoti Singh, who made her senior debut during the FIH Hockey Pro League earlier this year, has been named captain. Goalkeeping responsibilities will be shared by Nidhi and Angel Harsha Rani Minj.

In defense, the team will rely on the strength and composure of Manisha, Jyoti Singh (C), Lalthantuanghi, Mamita Oram, Sakshi Shukla, Pooja Sahu, and Nandini.

The midfield lineup includes skilled players such as Priyanka Yadav, Sakshi Rana, Khaidem Shilema Chanu, Rajni Kerketta, Binima Dhan, Ishika, Sunelita Toppo, and Anisha Sahu.

The forward line is packed with promising talents: Lalrinpuii, Nisha Minj, Purnima Yadav, Sonam, Kanika Siwach, and Sukhveer Kaur.

Preparing for International Competition

The players have been training rigorously at the national camp and are eager to put their preparation to the test against high-level international opponents. Competing in Australia will give the young athletes vital exposure to international playing conditions, boost their confidence, and sharpen their skills ahead of the Junior World Cup.

Speaking on the selection, Indian Junior Women’s Team Coach Tushar Khandekar expressed confidence in his squad.
“This is a talented group of young players who have been working hard in training. We have tried to strike the right balance in all departments and enable the players to adapt to any situation,” Khandekar said.

He further added, “Although they are young, they have considerable experience for their age and play very well together. The Australia tour will be a great opportunity for them to showcase their abilities and gain valuable international experience.”

Full Squad List

Goalkeepers: Nidhi, Angel Harsha Rani Minj
Defenders: Manisha, Jyoti Singh (C), Lalthantuanghi, Mamita Oram, Sakshi Shukla, Pooja Sahu, Nandini
Midfielders: Priyanka Yadav, Sakshi Rana, Khaidem Shilema Chanu, Rajni Kerketta, Binima Dhan, Ishika, Sunelita Toppo, Anisha Sahu
Forwards: Lalrinpuii, Nisha Minj, Purnima Yadav, Sonam, Kanika Siwach, Sukhveer Kaur

With a talented squad and strong preparation, the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team is set to make the most of this crucial tour, building momentum for the challenges ahead in the Junior World Cup.

Team Maverick