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The Hockey India on Friday named a 18-member squad for the Women’s Hockey World Cup to be played in London from next month.
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Experienced forward Rani Rampal was named the captain, while goalkeeper Savita will work as her deputy. The prestigious tournament also sees the return of another goalkeeper Rajani Etimarpu, who was rested for the Spain tour.
India have been placed in pool B alongside hosts and world no. 2 England, USA and Ireland.
The 18-member squad also consists of defenders Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur and youngster Reena Khokhar who makes a comeback into the team.
In the midfield Namita Toppo and Lilima Minz will lead the country’s charge and also have Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur and Nikki Pradhan in support.
Led by Rani who returned to the team during Spain’s tour, India’s forward line also has the experienced Vandana Katariya, Navneet Kaur, Lalremsiami and Udita all of who are excellent in attacks.
“It was not an easy decision to select the 18-member team as all the core probables have worked really hard in the national camp, said head coach Sjoerd Marijne after the team was announced. “However, we feel that this 18-member team will be the best mixture to be successful at the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup London 2018.”
“We have a good blend of experience and youth in the team. The recent Spain Tour has given the team great confidence to do well at the World Cup. Our focus is on the first match against England,” he added.
The Dutchman also spoke about their target of taking one match at a time. “In order to reach our first goal of qualifying for the quarterfinals, we can only think about the first match against the hosts and the team is excited and confident of starting well against them,” he said.
The Final squad:
Goalkeepers: Savita (Vice-Captain), Rajani Etimarpu
Defenders: Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, Gurjit Kaur, Reena Khokhar
Midfielders: Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur, Nikki Pradhan
Forwards: Rani (Captain), Vandana Katariya, Navneet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Udita
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