New Delhi: Striker Rani Rampal will lead a 18-strong women’s hockey team at the Asian Games to be held in Indonesia from August 18 to September 2.
Rani, who successfully captained India to a ninth women’s Asia Cup title victory last year, will have experienced goalkeeper Savita as her deputy.
Rajani Etimarpu has been named as the second goalkeeper for the continental event, where winning gold ensures direct qualification for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
India’s defence will feature Deep Grace Ekka, Sunita Lakra, Deepika Thakur, Reena Khokhar and Gurjit Kaur while the midfield consists of Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Udita, Nikki Pradhan and Neha Goyal. The attack will be led by the skipper, who has over 200 international caps. Rani will be supported by Vandana Katariya. Lalremsiami has also been rewarded for her recent exploits and will be joined by Navneet Kaur and Navjot.
Team: Goalkeepers: Savita (v-c), Rajani Etimarpu. Defenders: Deep Grace Ekka, Sunita Lakra, Deepika, Gurjit Kaur, Reena Khokhar. Midfielders: Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Udita, Nikki Pradhan, Neha Goyal. Forwards: Rani Rampal (c), Vandana Katariya, Lalrem-siami, Navneet, Navjot Kaur.
