Bengaluru, Nov 22
The Indian junior men’s hockey team embarked from Bengaluru on Friday for their Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2024 campaign, in Muscat, Oman from November 26 to December 4. India have won the tournament for a record four times including 2023, 2015, 2008 and 2004. They beat nemesis Pakistan 2-1 in the final last year to lift the title.
With 10 team participating in the event this time, India have been placed in Pool A with Korea, Japan, Chinese Taipei, and Thailand. While the remaining five teams in Pool B are Pakistan, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Oman, and China.
Led by captain Amir Ali and vice captain Rohit, India will open their campaign against Thailand on November 27, followed by a match against Japan on November 28. A clash against Chinese Taipei is on the cards for November 30 and their last group stage match against Korea is scheduled for December 1. The Indian team will have to ensure a top two finish to advance to the semi final, slated for December 3.
Following their third-place finish at the Sultan of Johor Cup 2024, India will look to carry their momentum and put on a good show at the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2024 in Oman with head coach PR Sreejesh at the helm.