New Delhi, August 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Hockey India on Friday announced the 18-member Indian junior men’s hockey squad for the AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026, with defender Anmol Ekka appointed as captain for the tournament scheduled to be held in Moqi, China, from August 30 to September 13.
The selected squad, along with two reserve players, is currently undergoing training at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Bengaluru under newly appointed head coach Frederic Soyez.
As part of their preparations for the continental championship, the team recently completed an exposure tour of Belgium, where the young players faced strong international opponents. The tour provided valuable match experience and helped the squad assess its combinations, improve tactical understanding and strengthen preparations for the upcoming tournament.
The team is also gaining further competitive exposure through practice matches against the Malaysian U-21 side at the SAI centre in Bengaluru.
Speaking about the squad selection, coach Soyez said the team has been chosen based on consistent performances, discipline and the ability to execute plans under pressure.
“We are pleased with the balance and depth of the squad selected for the Junior Asia Cup. The players have worked hard over the past few months, showing commitment, discipline and a strong desire to improve,” Soyez said.
The AHF Junior Asia Cup is among the leading junior hockey competitions in Asia and features some of the continent’s most promising teams. The tournament will give India’s young players an opportunity to compete against top regional sides and gain valuable international exposure.
“It will be a highly competitive tournament, and we respect every opponent. Our focus will be on playing disciplined, attacking hockey while staying true to our structure,” Soyez added.
Highlighting the importance of the event for player development, the coach said the squad has the potential to deliver strong performances and bring pride to the country.
The Indian squad includes Vivek Lakra and Kunal Tewatia as goalkeepers, while Anmol Ekka, Rohit Kullu, Chirag, Ravinder, Ashu Maurya, Sanjit Tirkey and Sukhvinder form the defensive unit.
The midfield will comprise Adrohit Ekka, Harpal, Jeetpal and Manmeet Singh Rai, while Ajeet Yadav, Prabhdeep Singh, Gursewak Singh, Aryan Xess and Lovenoor Singh have been selected as forwards.
Arjun Santosh Hargude and Ritik Lakra have been named as alternate players.
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