On Thursday, Hockey India revealed the 24-member squads for both the Men's and Women's U-18 teams, gearing up for a challenging series against Australia. This event is slated to occur at the Udhav Das Mehta (Bhai Ji) SAI Central Centre in Bhopal from May 15 to 20, 2026.

This four-match series is crucial as it serves as the final preparation for the upcoming Men's and Women's U-18 Asia Cup in Kakamigahara, Japan, scheduled from May 29 to June 6, 2026, as stated in a press release from Hockey India.

The selection of the final 24 players for each team followed a week of intensive evaluation during the National Coaching Camp, where an initial pool of 42 players was assessed based on their match fitness and tactical skills. Ketan Kushwaha has been appointed as the Captain of the Men's U-18 team, while Sweety Kujur will lead the Women's U-18 squad. The Men's Sub Junior team is under the guidance of former Indian hockey player Sardar Singh and Rajnish Mishra.

Insights from Coaches on Team Readiness

Sardar Singh shared his thoughts on the upcoming matches, stating, "After a fruitful week at the camp, we have finalized the 24 players who are prepared for international competition. These matches against Australia are not merely practice; they are essential for testing our match temperament and tactical discipline. Ketan is a natural leader, and I am eager to see how this team copes with the speed and pressure of the Australian style before heading to the U-18 Asia Cup in Japan."

The Women's team is also training under the guidance of former Indian Captain Rani. She commented on the squad selection, saying, "We have narrowed down the squad to 24 players who have demonstrated the most consistency and development during the camp. Sweety possesses the experience and vision necessary to lead this young team effectively. Competing against a top-tier team like Australia in Bhopal will provide us with valuable insights into our strengths and areas needing improvement. This series serves as the final rehearsal for the girls ahead of the Asia Cup."

Squads for the Upcoming Series Against Australia Indian U-18 Men's Squad:

Goalkeepers: Sawan Kumar, Ayush Rajak, Vishal Bada
Defenders: Ansh Bahutra, Ashish Tani Purti, Arman Soreng, Deepakprakash Toppo, Karan Gautam, Karan Dhanuk
Midfielders: Premchand Soy, Rahul Yadav, Varinder Singh, Romit Pal, Arjandeep Singh, Gursimranpreet Singh, Arshdip Singh, Avi Manikpuri
Forwards: Akash Deep, Ketan Kushwaha (Captain), Shahrukh Ali, Gazee Khan, Prahalad Rajbhar, Siddharth Ben, Jaysan Kandulna

Indian U-18 Women's Squad:

Goalkeepers: Mahak Parihar, Harry, Khili Kumari
Defenders: Sugan Sanga, Nilam Topno, Rubina Baxla, Kiran Ekka, Divya Yadav, Sulochani
Midfielders: Shruti Kumari, Diya, Harshita, Rashmeen Kaur, Laminganbi Akoijam, Nancy Saroha, Tongbram Lanchenbi Devi, Sneha Davde
Forwards: Nousheen Naz, Sweety Kujur (Captain), Priyanka Minz, Sandeepa Kumari, Nammi Geetashree, Princess Priya Ekka, Pushpa Manjhi.