Rohit, Bikramjit in national junior hockey team

Two trainees of Chandigarh Hockey Academy (CHA) Rohit and Bikramjit Singh, both registered with Hockey Chandigarh, have been selected to represent the nation in the 13th Sultan of Johar Cup 2025, scheduled to be held from October 11 to 18 in Malaysia. Both joined the CHA in 2014. Rohit, who has been appointed captain of the Indian team, is a member of Khelo India Centre of Excellence along with Bikramjit.

Drag flicker and a full-back, Rohit hails from Dabra village near Hisar (Haryana), and goalie Bikramjit belongs to Gurdaspur. He was adjudged best goalkeeper in the Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 for his performance with the Hyderabad Toofans. He was awarded a prize of Rs 10 lakh.

Both players are trained by Gurminder Singh, hockey coach with the UT Chandigarh Sports Department. “It’s a great honour for Hockey Chandigarh that Rohit will lead the junior Indian squad on the Malaysia tour. It is also an honour that Bikramjit, who was declared best goalkeeper in the HIL, will be part of this team,” said Anil Vohra, secretary, Hockey Chandigarh.

“Both players joined the CHA ranks in 2014, and have been part of the group since then. They both have been promoted to the Khelo India scheme and represented the city in various national events. Bikramjit has also showcased his talent on various platforms, but his performance in the HIL was appreciated by many in the hockey fraternity. I hope, they both contribute their best to win the title,” said Gurminder.

The Indian team is scheduled to open their tournament campaign against Great Britain on October 11, followed by their matches against New Zealand on October 12, against Pakistan on October 14, against Australia on October 15 and against Malaysia on October 17, before the start of the knock-out stage.