Commonwealth Games: Rani Rampal named women's hockey team captain
Young striker Rani Rampal has been named the captain of the Indian women's hockey team and will lead the 18-member squad at the upcoming 2018 Commonwealth Games in April. India have been grouped along with Malaysia, England, South Africa and Wales in Pool A and will kick off their Commonwealth Games campaign on April 5.
Savita Punia named vice-captain
Seasoned campaigner and goalkeeper Savita Punia has been named Rani Rampal's deputy as she returns to the squad after being rested for the tour of South Korea. The 27-year-old will share goalkeeping duties with Rajani Etimarpu while Deepika, Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Gurjit Kaur and Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam will complete India's defence unit.
India boast a strong defence
Monika, Namita Toppo, Nikki Pradhan, Neha Goyal and Lilima Minz will shoulder the task of setting up India's attack from the midfield. The likes of Rani, Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur, Navneet Kaur and Poonam Rani will lead the team from the front. India are currently number 10 in the world and will be up against tough opposition.
India hope to repeat 2002 and 2006 heroics
The Indian women's hockey team's best performance at the Commonwealth Games came in 2002 when they won the Gold medal in England after beating the hosts 3-2 in extra-time. They also won the silver medal at the 2006 Commonwealth games in Australia after going down in the final to the hosts. India will be hoping to repeat their 2002 and 2006 heroics.
India's 18-member squad for the CWG
Goalkeepers: Savita Punia (Vice-captain ), Rajani Etimarpu Defenders: Deepika, Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Gurjit Kaur, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam. Midfielders: Monika, Namita Toppo, Nikki Pradhan, Neha Goyal, Lilima Minz. Forwards: Rani Rampal (Captain), Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur, Navneet Kaur, Poonam Rani
