India’s campaign for the FIH Hockey World Cup for Junior Men will begin without star striker Araijeet Singh Hundal, who has been sidelined with a shoulder injury. Hundal, one of the team’s most reliable scorers, will miss the home-soil tournament starting on November 28.

Hockey India has appointed drag flicker Rohit as captain of the 18-member squad, with two additional reserve players. The marquee event marks the first time Tamil Nadu is hosting an FIH World Cup, with matches scheduled in both Chennai and Madurai. A total of 24 teams will compete. Following Pakistan’s withdrawal, Oman has stepped in as a replacement. India will play in a pool alongside Chile, Switzerland, and Oman.

Rohit, who delivered a strong performance at the recent Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia where India finished runners-up to Australia, will lead the team from deep defense. Goalkeepers Bikramjit Singh and Princedeep Singh have been selected, while the defensive unit includes skipper Rohit, Amir Ali, Anmol Ekka, Talem Priyo Barta, Sunil Palakshappa Bennur, and Shardanand Tiwari.

India’s midfield will feature Ankit Pal, Adrohit Ekka, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Manmeet Singh, and Rosan Kujur. The forward line comprises Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Arshdeep Singh, Ajeet Yadav, Dilraj Singh, and Gurjot, who made his senior India debut at the Asian Champions Trophy in Hulunbuir, China. Alternates Ravneet Singh and Rohit Kullu have also been named.

India will, however, feel the absence of Hundal, whose experience and attacking flair have been central to the junior setup.

Reflecting on the selection, Coach PR Sreejesh said, “We have selected a tried-and-tested team, with most of the players having a fair knowledge of what’s required to play in a tournament of this magnitude. While their physical capabilities, skill, and team play were among the criteria for selection, one of the key aspects we have looked into is their mental ability to perform under pressure.”

He added that preparation has been strong, thanks in part to training alongside the senior national team. “While we have had good international match exposure in the build-up to the Junior World Cup, we have also played a lot of matches with the Senior India team, as we are housed on the same campus here in SAI, Bengaluru,” Sreejesh said adding “This was a big part of our preparations, and when the players do well against their senior compatriots, they automatically gain confidence. Overall, we are on the upbeat side and looking forward to a good outing in front of the home crowd.”

Related posts:

FIH Junior World Cup Hockey: India to Play Pakistan on November 29 India Clinches Asia Cup Hockey 2025, Secures Spot in FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Argentina Dominates Pan American Cup, Books Double Berth for 2026 Hockey World Cups Tamil Nadu Gears Up for FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup in Chennai and Madurai; Trophy Tour and Mascot ‘Kangeyan’ Launched