Hockey India today announced an 18-member team, including four from Odisha for the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup, which is slated to begin in London on July 21. The Odisha players are: defeanders Deep Grace Ekka and Sunita Lakra, and midfielders Namita Toppo and Lilima Minz.

The Indian team has been placed in Pool B along with hosts and World No 2 England, World No 7 USA and World No 16 Ireland. The team will be led by experienced forward Rani while Goalkeeper Savita will shoulder the responsibility of vice-captain.

India’s defence will consist of Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur and youngster Reena Khokhar who makes a comeback into the team. In the midfield, Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur and Nikki Pradhan will hold fort.

Captain Rani returned to the team during their Spain Tour and will again be leading her team’s forward-line. The ace-striker will be linking up with the experienced Vandana Katariya while Navneet Kaur, Lalremsiami and Udita will also provide them support in attack.

“It was not an easy decision to select the 18-member team as all the core probables have worked really hard in the National Camp. However, we feel that this 18-member team will be the best mixture to be successful at the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup London 2018,” stated Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne.

INDIAN TEAM:

Goalkeepers: Savita (VC), Rajani Etimarpu.
Defenders: Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, Gurjit Kaur, Reena Khokhar.
Midfielders: Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur, Nikki Pradhan.
Forwards: Rani (C), Vandana Katariya, Navneet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Udita.