Bengaluru: In a major shift for Indian hockey, legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has been appointed as the Head Coach of the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team, leading the 18-member squad to Malaysia for the prestigious Sultan of Johor Cup.
This marks the beginning of a new chapter in the development of India’s young hockey talent as they prepare to compete in the tournament’s 12th edition, starting on October 19.
Under Sreejesh’s guidance, the team will be captained by defender Amir Ali, with forward Rohit serving as vice-captain.
Ali, a rising star in Indian hockey, expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament, emphasising its importance as a preparatory event ahead of the Men’s Junior Asia Cup in Muscat later this year. “The Sultan of Johor Cup will serve as a litmus test for the team,” he said. “We’re excited to play some intense matches in Malaysia.”
Rohit, echoing the excitement, highlighted the significance of Sreejesh’s presence. “Having an Indian hockey legend like PR Sreejesh in charge is a huge boost for the team. We’re all raring to go and make him proud.”
India will kick off their campaign with a match against Japan on October 19, followed by clashes with Great Britain, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand in the group stage. The young squad includes key players such as Amir Ali and Gurjot Singh, both of whom showcased their potential during India's successful run at the Asian Champions Trophy earlier this year.
Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team:
Goalkeepers: Bikramjit Singh, Ali Khan: Defenders: Amir Ali (C), Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Sukhvinder, Anmol Ekka, Rohit (VC); Midfielders: Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Mukesh Toppo, Chandan Yadav; Forwards: Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Konain Dad.
