Madurai: India is set to open their campaign at the FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup 2025 under the guidance of newly appointed head coach and legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. The tournament will begin on Friday in Tamil Nadu with India facing Chile in their Pool B opener at 8:30 PM IST in Chennai.

Sreejesh, just months after retiring from international play, has taken charge of the young Indian team with a vision that extends beyond the World Cup to the 2028 Los Angeles and 2032 Brisbane Olympics. The squad, captained by defender and drag-flicker Rohit, enters the competition with expectations high after winning silver at last month’s Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia. However, they face challenges, including the absence of key striker Araijeet Singh Hundal due to injury. The team has focused intensely on penalty corners, a key scoring area, practising flicking 200-300 balls daily to overcome previous shortcomings.

The Indian squad also includes players who have gained valuable experience in the Hockey India League. Goalkeeper Bikramjit Singh, recognised as the Goalkeeper of the Tournament in HIL, is seen as an unconventional and dependable presence between the posts. Sreejesh plans to analyse the game from a goalkeeper’s perspective, watching from behind the goal rather than the sidelines.

This year’s Junior World Cup is historic for its expansion to 24 teams, marking a more competitive and unpredictable tournament. India’s Pool B also includes Switzerland and Oman, who replaced Pakistan following their withdrawal.