Rising Star Sakshi Rana Aims to Defend Junior World Cup Gold After Dream Senior Debut

New Delhi, March 7 – Young Indian hockey forward Sakshi Rana is setting her sights on defending the gold medal at the upcoming Junior World Cup in Chile later this year. Fresh off a sensational senior debut at the Hockey Pro League, the 17-year-old is now focused on improving her speed to match the pace of international competition.

Rana marked her senior debut with a stunning field goal against Spain, though India narrowly lost 3-4 in Bhubaneswar. She later featured in matches against Spain and Germany.

"I had been waiting for my senior debut for a long time, so I was really happy. I wasn’t nervous because the senior players supported me, reassuring me that there are no mistakes in the first game. That allowed me to play freely," Sakshi said in a statement released by Hockey India.

Her debut goal was a remarkable solo effort—pressing aggressively, intercepting the ball in a dangerous position, and firing a backhand shot from inside the circle.
"My target was to score on debut, so I was very determined. When I won the ball, I realized I had space and just took the shot. When I heard everyone cheering, I knew I had scored," she recounted.

Speed the Key Focus Ahead of Junior World Cup​

Sakshi's experience in the Pro League made her recognize the importance of speed in modern hockey.
"Playing against foreign players in the Hockey India League and Pro League, I realized that speed is everything. As a forward, I need to be quick on the field, so that’s my focus now," she said.
A crucial part of India's gold medal-winning team at the Women’s Junior Asia Cup last year, Sakshi is determined to make an impact at the Junior World Cup.
"My entire focus is on the Junior World Cup, and I’m training hard for it. With consistent practice and dedication, I believe I can help India secure another medal," she asserted.

Gratitude Towards Coach Harendra Singh​

Initially named in the standby list, Sakshi was grateful to chief coach Harendra Singh for recognizing her potential and giving her the opportunity to play against Spain.

"When he told me I was playing, he said it was my game that earned the spot, not just his selection. He assured me I’d get a chance to score and that the senior players would support me. After my goal, he even hugged me, which made the moment even more special," she recalled.

With her confidence soaring and her training regimen intensifying, Sakshi Rana is set to be a key player for India in their quest for another Junior World Cup triumph.