In a major boost for Indian hockey’s youth pipeline, Hockey India on Monday announced 84 players—split evenly between 42 men and 42 women—for the Under-18 National Coaching Camp at SAI Bhopal, starting today. These selections stem directly from top performances at the 16th Sub-Junior National Championship.
The rigorous program begins with full squads undergoing a seven-day assessment. Top 24 from each gender will advance to a high-intensity block targeting the 2026 Under-18 Asia Cup in Japan. Expect fierce competition as players vie for final spots.
Excitement builds around the exposure series: From May 11-21, India’s U-18 teams will test mettle against Australia’s in Bhopal. ‘This is invaluable for gaining global experience and identifying areas for growth,’ sources close to the program noted.
Coaching heavyweights Rani Ramphal (women), Sardar Singh, and Rajnish Mishra (men) will oversee operations. Sardar Singh shared his vision: ‘This camp molds future stars by blending basics with cutting-edge skills. Australia’s challenge will simulate tournament intensity, potentially launching careers that span 10-15 years.’
Rani echoed, ‘We’ll hone personal techniques and squad dynamics. Facing top-tier opposition prepares us perfectly for Asia Cup glory.’
Breaking down the squads geographically: Men’s team boasts UP’s seven-strong contingent, MP’s six, Punjab’s four, with Odisha, Jharkhand, and DDD contributing three each. Women’s led by Jharkhand’s eight players, followed by MP, Punjab, Odisha (five apiece).
Full men’s list: Goalkeepers – Ayush Rajak (MP), Birendra Kumar (DDD), etc. Defenders: Ansh Bahuta (MP), Nitish Yadav (UP). Midfielders: Avi Manikpuri (MP), Romit Pal (UP), and 18 more. Forwards: 15 sharpshooters including Karan Goutam (MP), Prahlad Rajbhar (UP).
Women’s: Goalkeepers – Khili Kumari (Jharkhand), Mahak Parihar (MP). Defenders: 14 including Radhika (Haryana), Preeti Bilung (Jharkhand). Midfielders and forwards feature stars like Divya Yadav (UP), Sandipa Kumari (Jharkhand).
As India eyes hockey dominance, this camp signals a promising horizon for emerging talents.
