Rani to lead 20-member women’s hockey team for NZ tour

TIL Desk Sports/ Striker Rani will be leading a 20 -member Indian women’s hockey team in a five-Test series against New Zealand in Midlands, starting May 14. Defender Sushila Chanu will be Rani’s deputy during the series. Sushila is making a comeback after nearly eight months of rehabilitation due to an injury.

The team is a blend of youth and experience with the defence line comprising Deep Grace Ekka, Udita, Sunita Lakra, Namita Toppo, Sushila and drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur. Savita is the first goalkeeper of the squad. Savita had a fantastic outing at the Women’s Hockey World League Round 2 where she was adjudged the ‘Goalkeeper of the tournament’.

Rajani Etimarpu will travel as the second goal keeper in the team. The midfield will be formed by the experienced Ritu Rani, Lilima Minz, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Renuka Yadav, Nikki Pradhan and Reena Khokar. The forwardline features Rani, Vandana Katariya, Preeti Dubey, Sonika and Anupa Barla. The Senior women’s team have had a great start to the new season with some remarkable wins.