The Hockey Association of Odisha announced its 18-man squad for the forthcoming 13th Hockey India Sub Junior Men’s National Championship 2023 on Wednesday. From May 18 to May 28, all tournament contests are scheduled to take place at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela. There will be 28 teams competing for the coveted championship.
Ashish Kumar Toppo, age 15, will serve as captain of the host State, while Bilkan Oram will serve as vice-captain. Abhimanyu Gouda and Ronit Raj Xaxa will be the designated goalkeepers for this match.
Coach B.J. Kariappa commented on the upcoming tournament and the significance it held for his team, stating, “The lads are ecstatic and eager to exhibit their talents on the field.
Ashish Kumar Toppo, age 15, will serve as captain of the host State, while Bilkan Oram will serve as vice-captain.
It is a fantastic opportunity for our team to play in front of an enthusiastic audience and challenge themselves to their limits. We welcome the challenge and eagerly anticipate delivering a performance befitting of the stage.”
“Playing at the World Cup venue is an exhilarating experience for us, and it brings a unique sense of pride and anticipation,” said captain Ashish Kumar Toppo. Under the guidance of our coach, we have committed ourselves to rigorous training in an effort to excel.
Hard labor and preparation have brought us to this point, and we anxiously anticipate the chance to demonstrate our abilities on such a grand stage. We are eager to leave a lasting impression and bring honor to our state.”
Hockey Odisha squad
Goalkeeper: Ronit Xaxa & Abhimanyu Gouda, Deep defender: Pradip Mandal, Rohit Kulu & Salmon Toppo, Flank defender: Bilkan Oram, Defensive midfielder: Sudarshan Goud, Amarjit Singh, Suresh Sharma, Attacking midfielder: Samir Barwa, Ashis Kumar Toppo & Swadhin Lugun, Left striker: Yojin Minz, Nanwar Deonath, Centre striker: Rohit Singh, Right striker: Deepak Pradhan, Bidyananda Sing.