Rani Rampal to lead Women's Hockey team for Korea tour
Ace striker Rani Rampal was today named captain of Indian women's hockey team for the next month's season-opening away series against Korea, where Poonam Rani will make a comeback. India will play five matches against the hosts at the Jinchun National Athletic Centre, from March 3 to 12. Defender Sunita Lakra will be Rani's deputy during the tour. Here's more.
The defense line and attack squad
The defence line will feature the experienced Deepika. She will be joined by Suman Devi Thoudam, Deep Grace Ekka, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Gurjit Kaur who will double up as dragflicker. Monika, Namita Toppo, Nikki Pradhan, Neha Goyal, Udita and Lilima Minz will form the midfield while Rani, Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur, Navneet Kaur and Poonam, will form India's attack.
Chief coach Harendra Singh's statement
"It is good to see experienced players like Deepika and Poonam overcome injuries and return to the squad," Chief coach Harendra Singh said. "Doing well in season's first event is always important to gain confidence and momentum for the rest of the year. Also, Korea Tour will help us analyse the areas that requires improvement ahead of the Gold Coast CWG," he further ad
The full squad for Korea tour
Here are the details of the squad: Goalkeepers: Rajani Etimarpu, Swati Defenders: Deepika, Sunita Lakra (VC), Deep Grace Ekka, Suman Devi Thoudam, Gurjit Kaur, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam Midfielders: Monika, Namita Toppo, Nikki Pradhan, Neha Goyal, Lilima Minz, Udita Forwards: Rani (C), Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur, Navneet Kaur, Poonam Rani.
When India beat China to win Women's Asia Cup
The Korea Tour will be the Indian team's first event after its historic Asia Cup success where the side beat China 5-4 in a penalty shootout to lift the title in November last year.
