Who Will Shine in the Four Nations Tournament? Hockey India Unveils 24-Member Junior Men’s Squad

Synopsis
Hockey India has revealed the 24-member junior men’s squad for the Four Nations Tournament in Berlin, Germany. This event, featuring top teams like India, Spain, Australia, and Germany, serves as a critical preparation for the upcoming FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup. Can the young squad rise to the occasion and showcase their talent on an international platform?
Key Takeaways
- Team Composition: A blend of youth and experience.
- Preparation Focus: Emphasis on growth and learning.
- International Exposure: Competing against top teams.
- Strategic Development: Opportunities for tactical experimentation.
- Future Goals: Building towards the FIH Junior World Cup 2025.
New Delhi, June 10 (NationPress) - On Tuesday, Hockey India officially revealed the Indian junior men’s team set to compete in the upcoming Four Nations Tournament, taking place in Berlin, Germany from June 21-25. This esteemed event will showcase four formidable teams: India, Spain, Australia, and the host nation, Germany.
During the tournament, each squad will engage in a single round-robin pool stage, facing off against every other team. The top two teams will then progress to the final, while the third and fourth-placed teams will participate in a classification match.
This tournament is pivotal as it provides a crucial preparatory opportunity for the Indian junior team ahead of the FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup 2025, which will occur later this year in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10.
The squad will be captained by the dynamic forward Araijeet Singh Hundal, recognized for his exceptional attacking skills and leadership. The seasoned defender Amir Ali has been appointed as Vice-Captain, bringing his calm demeanor and experience to the team.
The goalkeeping duties will be shared between Bikramjit Singh and Vivek Lakra, both of whom have demonstrated excellent reflexes and control during training.
Defensively, the team showcases a robust lineup with Amir Ali joined by Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Sunil P B, Anmol Ekka, Rohit, Ravneet Singh, and Sukhvinder. The midfield is packed with talent, featuring Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Rohit Kullu, Thockchom Kingson Singh, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Adrohit Ekka, and Jeetpal, all capable of dictating play.
The forward line includes Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Araijeet Singh Hundal, and Ajeet Yadav, a combination that promises speed and scoring potential.
Moreover, Adarsh G (goalkeeper), Prasant Barla (defender), Chandan Yadav (midfielder), and Mohd. Konain Dad (forward) have been named as standby players for the tour.
Regarding the tournament and the selected squad, Indian junior men’s team coach PR Sreejesh stated, “The Four Nations Tournament is a crucial element of our preparation strategy for the FIH Junior World Cup later this year. It will provide an opportunity to face top-tier international teams in a competitive environment, essential for the growth of these young players.
“This tour emphasizes preparation over results. Competing against high-quality teams like Germany, Australia, and Spain will test our boys in various aspects — tactically, physically, and mentally. Such experiences are vital in shaping world-class athletes.”
“We have assembled a squad that balances energy with potential. This tour will enable us to refine our strategies, experiment with different combinations, and allow players to take charge in critical match situations. The insights gained will be invaluable as we gear up for the Junior World Cup at home,” he added.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Bikramjit Singh, Vivek Lakra.
Defenders: Amir Ali (Vice-Captain), Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Sunil P B, Anmol Ekka, Rohit, Ravneet Singh, Sukhvinder.
Midfielders: Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Rohit Kullu, Thockchom Kingson Singh, Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang, Adrohit Ekka, Jeetpal.
Forwards: Araijeet Singh Hundal (Captain), Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Ajeet Yadav.