Delilah D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru

Bengaluru, May 21: The Indian junior women’s hockey team departed from Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, early Wednesday for the Four Nations Tournament in Rosario, Argentina. The tournament, set to take place from May 25 to June 2, is a key part of the team’s preparation for the FIH Hockey Junior Women’s World Cup scheduled for December.

The competition will feature four teams — India, Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile — each playing two matches against the others. It will serve as a platform for the Indian team to test combinations, refine strategies, and gain international exposure.

Led by captain and goalkeeper Nidhi, with forward Hina Bano as vice-captain, India will begin their campaign against Chile on May 25, followed by matches against Uruguay on May 26 and Argentina on May 28.

Expressing her optimism, Nidhi said, “We have been working hard in training, and we hope our efforts reflect in the matches. Playing against stronger opponents will help us improve.”

Head coach Tushar Khandker added that the tour is crucial for identifying the best players and preparing them for the World Cup and eventual transition to the senior team. “This tour will provide valuable international experience and help shape the team for bigger challenges ahead,” he said.