The Indian under-21 men’s hockey team, led by newly appointed coach PR Sreejesh, is set to kick off its campaign at the 12th Sultan of Johor Cup with a crucial opener against Japan on Saturday. Sreejesh, a two-time Olympic medalist and former goalkeeper, took charge of the junior team shortly after retiring from international hockey following India’s bronze-winning performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

India aims to secure its fourth title in this prestigious tournament, having previously won the crown in 2013, 2014, and 2022. The young squad heads into the tournament with confidence, following a 3-1 win over Japan at the Junior Asia Cup last May and a 5-1 victory in the 2022 edition of the Sultan of Johor Cup.

"Our team has been training diligently under our new head coach, PR Sreejesh, and we're thrilled to embark on our first tournament with him," said captain Amir Ali. "Although we fell short of the title last time after a loss to Germany, we're now better prepared and ready to take on any challenge."

Following their opener against Japan, India will go up against Britain on Sunday. The team will then have a rest day before taking on hosts Malaysia on October 22, followed by a match against Australia on October 23. India will wrap up the group stage with a game against New Zealand on October 25, aiming for a top-two finish to advance to the final on October 26.

Vice-captain Rohit expressed optimism about the team’s preparations: “We’ve trained intensively over the past few days to ensure we’re in peak form for the tournament. The squad includes several new players determined to showcase their talent, and we’ve been motivating each other to excel as we prepare for a demanding schedule, culminating with the Junior Asia Cup in Muscat this November.