Rourkela, Odisha: The excitement is building up as the 13th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship is all set to commence on Tuesday at the prestigious Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Odisha. This highly anticipated tournament will witness the participation of 28 teams from across the country, who will battle it out for the coveted championship trophy.
The participating teams have been divided into eight groups, with each group consisting of three or four teams. The winners of each group will advance to the quarter-finals, intensifying the competition as the tournament progresses.
Among the strong contenders, Hockey Haryana, the two-time defending champions, has been placed in Pool A alongside Hockey Bengal and Telangana Hockey. Known for their formidable skills and championship experience, Hockey Haryana will be eager to maintain their winning streak and secure a third consecutive title.
Another team to watch out for is the Hockey Association of Odisha, which finished third in the previous edition of the championship. Determined to go the distance this time, they have been placed in Pool C, alongside the Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu and Manipur Hockey. With the advantage of playing on their home turf, the Hockey Association of Odisha will strive to showcase their talent and make their state proud.
Pool D comprises Hockey Maharashtra, Delhi Hockey, and Kerala Hockey, promising some intense battles on the field. These teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory and will aim to make their mark in the tournament.
Pool E features Hockey Karnataka, Hockey Madhya Pradesh, Le Puducherry Hockey, and Hockey Jammu and Kashmir. This group promises a thrilling display of skills and determination as each team aims to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
In Pool F, Hockey Chandigarh, Hockey Mizoram, Hockey Bihar, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Hockey will compete fiercely for advancement. With a mix of seasoned players and rising talents, this group is expected to deliver some exciting matches.
Lastly, Pool H consists of Hockey Madhya Pradesh, Hockey Andhra Pradesh, Hockey Himachal Pradesh, and Goans Hockey. Each team will vie for dominance and leave no room for error as they battle it out to secure a spot in the later stages of the tournament.
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