India Thrash Bangladesh 13-1 in Women’s Junior Asia Cup Opener

Muscat: The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team began their campaign at the Women’s Junior Asia Cup with a dominating 13-1 victory over Bangladesh in their Pool A opener. A clinical display of attacking prowess saw India overwhelm their opponents, with Mumtaz Khan leading the charge with four goals (27′, 32′, 53′, 58′).

Dragflick specialist Deepika (7′, 20′, 55′) and Kanika Siwach (12′, 51′, 51′) achieved hat-tricks, while Manisha (10′), Beauty Dung Dung (33′), and Sakshi Rana (43′) added to the scoreline. Bangladesh’s lone goal came from Orpita Pal (12′).

India set the tempo early, with Deepika converting a penalty corner in the 7th minute. Manisha doubled the lead with a clever penalty corner variation in the 10th minute, followed by a splendid field goal by Kanika Siwach in the 12th minute. However, Bangladesh capitalized on a penalty corner opportunity the same minute, as Orpita Pal scored to make it 3-1.

The Indian side maintained their dominance, with Deepika scoring again in the 20th minute. Mumtaz Khan struck her first goal in the 27th minute, extending India’s lead to 5-1 at halftime.

India’s relentless attack continued in the second half, with Mumtaz scoring again in the 32nd minute, followed by Beauty Dung Dung in the 33rd minute. Sakshi Rana’s 43rd-minute strike further crushed Bangladesh’s defense.

The final quarter turned into a goal fest. Kanika Siwach scored twice in the 51st minute to complete her hat-trick, while Mumtaz added her third in the 53rd minute. Deepika joined the hat-trick club with a field goal in the 55th minute, and Mumtaz capped off the match with her fourth goal in the 58th minute.

India’s commanding victory sends a strong message to their opponents as they prepare to face Malaysia in their next match on December 9 at 8:30 PM IST.