The Men’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2024 kicks off today, November 26, in Muscat, Oman, and runs until December 4. Defending champions India will look to secure a hattrick of titles and extend their record as the most successful team in the tournament’s history, having already claimed the trophy four times (2004, 2008, 2015, and 2023).
This year’s tournament serves as a qualifier for the FIH Junior Hockey Men’s World Cup 2025, bringing together ten teams divided into two pools. India, led by captain and defender Amir Ali, is grouped in Pool A alongside Chinese Taipei, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. Pool B comprises Pakistan, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Oman, and the People’s Republic of China.
India’s Strengths and Schedule
India’s squad features a balanced mix of experience and youth, with vice-captain Rohit and forward Gurjot Singh leading the charge. Both players have shown their abilities in senior tournaments, enhancing India’s chances of clinching their fifth title.
India’s Group Matches (IST):
– November 27: India vs Thailand – 6:15 PM
– November 28: Japan vs India – 8:30 PM
– November 30: India vs Chinese Taipei – 6:15 PM
– December 1: South Korea vs India – 8:30 PM
If India advances, the semi-finals will be played on December 3, followed by the final and third-place match on December 4.
Tournament Format
The group stage features round-robin matches, with the top two teams from each pool advancing to the semi-finals. Teams finishing third and fourth in their pools will compete in classification matches, while fifth-placed teams will vie for ninth place.
As hosts of the FIH Junior World Cup 2025, India has already secured qualification. If India finishes in the top six, the seventh-placed team will also qualify for the World Cup.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch live action via the Hockey India Media YouTube Channel as no TV broadcast has been confirmed for India.
India’s Squad
Goalkeepers: Princedeep Singh, Bikramjit Singh
Defenders: Amir Ali (captain), Talem Priyobarta, Shardanand Tiwari, Yogember Rawat, Anmol Ekka, Rohit (vice-captain)
Midfielders: Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Rosan Kujur, Mukesh Toppo, Thokchom Kingson Singh
Forwards: Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Araijeet Singh HundalReserves: Sukhvinder, Chandan Yadav
Pool B Rivalry
India’s traditional rivals Pakistan, a part of Pool B, are expected to be strong contenders. Pakistan’s unbeaten campaign and impressive record make them a team to watch, particularly as the stakes include World Cup qualification.
But one thing is for sure, India is primed to make a strong push for their fifth Junior Asia Cup title and maintain their dominance in Asian hockey.
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