Rising stars of Indian hockey : Sangita Kumari, Abhishek and Jyoti

Many young players got the opportunity to showcase their excellent skills at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, giving a glimpse of what to expect from Indian hockey in the future. 

The women's squad of India clinched the bronze medal after beating Wales 1-1(2-1) in the shootout to end their 16-year-long medal drought.

Here are three of the most promising youngsters gracing the hockey pitches for India:

Jyoti

Jyoti has come a long way from making her debut in 2019. The 22-year-old Sonipat native made her maiden appearance for India at a multi-discipline event at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. 

Jyoti is confident with her movements on the field with and off the ball. She maintains her composure even under challenging circumstances to create opportunities and control the game flow from the midfield.

She has credited her career success to the Chief coach of the women's hockey squad, Janeeke Schopman. Jyoti said, "Janneke has helped me improve my game. She has taught me how to make the game simple and easy for myself. I do not ponder on the ball anymore and look to move it as swiftly as possible. Her hands-on approach during practice sessions has bought out the best of my abilities."

Sangita Kumari

Sangita Kumari started playing hockey at the age of seven. She was a regular at the Junior National Camp and played Indian Women's Junior Hockey team at Asian Youth Olympic Games Qualifiers, 2021 FIH Hockey Women's Junior World Cup and many other international events as a part of the 

The 20-year-old from Jharkhand was a part of the Indian squad that won the bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Sangita Kumari expressed her nervousness about playing at the Commonwealth Games and the proud feeling of earning a podium finish.

While talking about her experience in Birmingham, Sangita Kumari said, "I am fortunate to have gotten this opportunity to play at the CWG at a young age. I am aware that I need to continue working on my game, and with the help of the Chief Coach and my teammates, I look forward to honing my skills further and working on being a constant member of the team,"

Abhishek

Abhishek made his debut for the Indian men's hockey squad against South Africa in an FIH Pro Hockey League match in February earlier this year. He went on to play 14 games during the league and scored seven goals for India, earning him a spot in the Commonwealth Games squad.

The-23-year-old continued with his solid performance in Birmingham and played a crucial role in securing the silver medal for India.