New Delhi: Goalkeeper Savita will captain an 18-strong Indian women’s hockey team, which includes four players from Odisha, for the five-match series against Malaysia starting April 4, Hockey India announced Wednesday.
Savita will stand in for regular skipper Rani Rampal, who is nursing an injury. The eight-day tour to Kuala Lumpur will have defender Deep Grace Ekka as Savita’s deputy.
In the absence of Rani, the experienced Namita Toppo and dragflicker Gurjit Kaur, it would be an opportunity for the youngsters to strengthen their future prospects.
Rajani Etimarpu has joined the squad as the second goalkeeper.
The defence will include youngster Salima Tete, Reena Khokar, Ekka, Rashmita Minz, and Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam along with Sunita Lakra, who is making a comeback into the squad after missing the Spain Tour.
In the midfield, the experienced Monika returns from injury to join Karishma Yadav, Nikki Pradhan, Neha Goyal and Lilima Minz.
The forward line includes Jyoti, Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur and Navneet Kaur.
PTI