Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team Eyes Maiden Title at Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023

New Delhi: The Indian junior women’s hockey team is filled with enthusiasm and excitement as they eagerly prepare for the much-anticipated Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 in Kakamigahara, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Their primary goal is to secure their first-ever championship in this prestigious international tournament.

The Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 will grant automatic qualification to the top three teams, who will then compete in the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup 2023 held in Santiago, Chile from November 29 to December 10, 2023.

India’s team, led by captain Preeti and vice-captain Deepika, has been placed in Pool A alongside Korea, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, and Chinese Taipei. Pool B consists of hosts Japan, China, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, and Hong Kong China.

In previous editions of the tournament, the Indian team has achieved remarkable success, securing a silver medal and four bronze medals. This time, their ultimate aim is to claim the coveted gold medal.

Captain Preeti expressed her team’s readiness, stating, “We have dedicated ourselves to rigorous training in preparation for this tournament. We are now fully prepared to implement the skills and strategies we have honed during our training sessions. Training alongside the Senior India team on the same campus has been beneficial, as it elevated our game and bolstered our confidence.”

Vice-Captain Deepika added her excitement about competing against the top young teams in Asia, emphasizing their determination to perform their best. “The Junior Asia Cup presents a tremendous opportunity for us to showcase our skills and prove ourselves. We are thrilled to face some of the strongest teams in Asia. Over the years, we have consistently performed well in this tournament and won multiple medals. However, this time, our focus is firmly set on clinching the gold medal, a historic first for our team. Our immediate priority, though, is to secure a spot in the top three and qualify for the Junior World Cup,” Deepika remarked.

The Indian junior women’s hockey team’s ambition to triumph at the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 shines through their diligent preparation, unwavering dedication, and strong belief in their abilities. With their sights set on victory, they eagerly anticipate the tournament’s commencement, eager to make their mark on the field.