Odisha will have a significant representation in the Indian teams for the upcoming Junior Asia Cup hockey tournaments. In the Women’s Junior Asia Cup, five talented players from Odisha, namely Madhuri Kindo (goalkeeper), Anjali Barwa (defender), Jyoti Chhatri, Sujata Kujur (midfielders), and Sunelita Toppo (forward), have secured their spots in the 18-member national squad. The tournament will take place in Kakamigahara, Japan, from June 2nd to 11th. India’s women’s team will compete against Korea, Malaysia, Chinese Taipei, and Uzbekistan in the pool stage.

Similarly, in the Men’s Junior Asia Cup, Hockey India has selected three boys from Odisha for the 18-member squad. Amandeep Lakra (defender), Sunit Lakra (midfielder), and Sudeep Chirmako (forward) will proudly represent Odisha in the tournament scheduled to be held in Salalah, Oman, from May 23rd to June 1st. In the group stage, India’s men’s team will face tough competition from Pakistan, Japan, Thailand, and Chinese Taipei. The strong presence of Odisha players in both the men’s and women’s teams reflects the state’s growing prominence in the field of hockey. With their talent and determination, these young athletes will strive to make their mark and bring glory to the nation.