Defending champions Hockey Haryana keen to retain trophy

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, March 9

Defending champions Hockey Haryana will be looking ahead to retain the title of the 11th Hockey India Sub-Junior Women National Championship 2021 starting from March 10 to 18 in Simdega district, Jharkhand, for the first time.

Haryana had lifted the title in 2019 following a thrilling final against Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy. Hockey Jharkhand, which is in Pool B, and Hockey Odisha in Pool C are also expected to go far. Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy, meanwhile, will be looking to go one better than it did in 2019.

Hockey Haryana, which is in Pool A along with Hockey Uttarakhand and Hockey Rajasthan, is upbeat about its chances of retaining the trophy.

“We had a memorable outing last time (in 2019). The tournament was held in Haryana and the girls rose to the occasion to perform exceedingly well. So many players made a mark, including forward Deepika who currently plays for the Indian Junior Women’s Team. We are confident of putting up a good show once again. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, training was challenging but we have come well prepared, thanks to the support shown by Hockey Haryana and Hockey India,” said Kuldeep Siwach, coach, Hockey Haryana.

Skipper Nidhi expressed excitement ahead of the tournament. “I am so glad to be back playing with my teammates after a long gap. The circumstances were challenging to train due to the Covid-19 restrictions. But in recent months, that has changed and we feel well prepared for the 11th Hockey India Sub-Junior Women National Championship - 2021. I am proud to be representing Haryana and we are confident of winning gold again,” said Nidhi.

A total of 22 teams with over 400 players as well as coaching and support staff will be in Simdega for the prestigious tournament, which will be closely watched by Hockey India national selectors. After five days of pool matches, quarterfinals will be played on March 15. The semi-finals and the final will be held on March 17 and 18, respectively.

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