India Gears Up for Exciting FIH Junior World Cup in Expanded 24-Team Format

The FIH Junior World Cup is set to electrify India with a new 24-team format, as host cities Chennai and Madurai prepare for the global showdown from November 28 to December 10. Former India goalkeeper and current coach PR Sreejesh expressed excitement about the expanded format and emphasized the critical nature of the quarterfinal stage.

This year's event marks a substantial increase from the 16-team format, previously introduced in 2001. Teams are divided into six pools, with India placed in Pool B alongside Pakistan, Chile, and Switzerland. Only the top six group winners and the two best second-placed teams will advance to the quarterfinals, adding an edge of competitiveness to each match.

India aims to improve its performance after finishing fourth in the 2023 edition. As anticipation builds, the focus remains on strategic gameplay with hopes to replicate the country's past successes from 2001 and 2016, when India took home the championship. Meanwhile, Germany, the defending champions, remain the team to beat with their record seven titles.

(With inputs from agencies.)