Hockey World Cup: Rani to lead
Forward Rani Rampal was on Friday named as the captain of India’s 18-member squad for the women’s hockey World Cup to be played in London next month.
Hockey India announced the squad for the prestigious tournament which is slated to begin on July 21.
India have been placed in Pool B along side hosts and world No 2 England, world No 7 USA and world No16 Ireland.
While the experienced Rampal will lead the team, goalkeeper Savita has been named as her deputy.
The tournament will also witness the return of goalkeeper Rajani Etimarpu after having rested for the Spain tour.
India’s defence will consist of Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur and youngster Reena Khokhar, who makes a comeback to the team.
In the midfield, Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur and Nikki Pradhan will hold fort.
Skipper Rampal returned to the team during the Spain tour and will again be leading the forward-line.
“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. However, we feel that this 18-member team will be the best mixture to be successful at the Hockey Women’s World Cup London 2018,” said chief coach Sjoerd Marijne.
NEW DELHI:
Squad: Goalkeepers: Savita (vicecaptain), 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.