Hockey India has announced the 18-member Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team for the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025, scheduled from 28 November to 10 December in Chennai and Madurai.
The squad, coached by legendary former India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, will lead the nation’s charge at one of the most anticipated events in the global junior hockey calendar. India, placed in Pool B, will compete against Chile, Switzerland and Oman, the latter joining as a replacement for Pakistan. With home support behind them and a well-balanced group, India enter the tournament with strong expectations.
Defender and drag-flick specialist Rohit will captain the side. He was among India’s standout performers at the Sultan of Johor Cup earlier this year, where the team clinched the silver medal. His leadership and penalty-corner expertise will be central to India’s campaign. However, India will enter the World Cup without one of its most influential figures: Araijeet Singh Hundal. The star striker, regarded among the brightest young forwards in world hockey, has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury, a significant setback for the team.
Strong Defensive Core Anchored by Experience
India’s defensive unit carries both depth and experience. Alongside captain Rohit, the backline includes Amir Ali, one of the few players who featured in the previous Junior World Cup. His tournament experience, composure under pressure and defensive clarity will be invaluable.
The defensive group also features Anmol Ekka, Talem Priyo Barta, Sunil Palakshappa Bennur and Shardanand Tiwari, giving India a stable and well-tested line. Tiwari, known for his calm distribution and aerial balls, adds tactical versatility. In goal, Bikramjit Singh and Princedeep Singh have been selected, both having performed consistently across domestic and exposure tournaments.
India’s midfield brings a blend of creativity, discipline and work rate. The group includes Ankit Pal, Adrohit Ekka, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Manmeet Singh and Rosan Kujur. Collectively, they provide India with the ability to control tempo, transition quickly and support both defensive structures and attacking bursts. The midfield has been one of the team’s most consistent units through the year, with players demonstrating strong chemistry during training blocks and match exposure against senior teams.
With Araijeet absent, India’s forward line will look to a new combination to deliver goals. The squad features Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Arshdeep Singh, Ajeet Yadav, Dilraj Singh and Gurjot Singh. Gurjot, notably, has already tasted senior international action, having made his India debut at the Asian Champions Trophy in China last year. His pace and finishing ability make him a vital presence in the circle.
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India’s attacking unit has shown good rotation and link-up play during recent exposure matches, and the coaching staff will rely on their speed and pressing ability to create scoring opportunities.
Coaching Vision: Mental Strength as Key
Coach PR Sreejesh highlighted the holistic approach behind team selection.
“We have selected a tried-and-tested team with players who understand what it takes to compete at this level,” Sreejesh said. “Along with physical skill and technical ability, one of the main things we looked for was their mental strength how they handle pressure, especially at home.”
He also underlined the importance of the team’s preparation environment. With the junior and senior national teams training together at the same SAI campus in Bengaluru, the younger players regularly faced senior opposition in practice matches.
“This was a big part of our preparation,” Sreejesh added. “When juniors perform well against senior players, their confidence grows. We are an upbeat side and excited to play in front of home fans.”
Alternate Players
Two athletes Ravneet Singh and Rohit Kullu have been named as alternate players and will be available should any replacements be required.
India’s 18-Member Junior Men’s Hockey Team
Goalkeepers:
- Bikramjit Singh
- Princedeep Singh
Defenders:
- Rohit (Captain)
- Talem Priyobarta
- Anmol Ekka
- Amir Ali
- Sunil Palakshappa Bennur
- Shardanand Tiwari
Midfielders:
- Ankit Pal
- Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang
- Adrohit Ekka
- Rosan Kujur
- Manmeet Singh
- Gurjot Singh
Forwards:
- Arshdeep Singh
- Sourabh Anand Kushwaha
- Ajeet Yadav
- Dilraj Singh
Alternate Players:
- Ravneet Singh
- Rohit Kullu
With a solid squad, a celebrated coach and the advantage of playing at home, India will look to mount a strong challenge as the Junior World Cup returns to the country after more than a decade.
