Rani to lead at Hockey WC

New Delhi: Experienced forward Rani will lead the 18-member Indian Hockey Team at the upcoming hockey women's World Cup, slated to begin on July 21 in London, Hockey India (HI) announced on Friday.

Goalkeeper Savita will shoulder the responsibility of Vice Captain of the side which has been placed in Pool B along with hosts and World No.2 England, World No.7 USA and World No. 16 Ireland.

India's defence will consist of Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur and youngster Reena Khokhar, who makes a comeback into the team. In the midfield, Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur and Nikki Pradhan will hold the fort.

The Indian eves will kick-off their campaign against England on July 21..

Squad: Goalkeepers: Savita (Vice-Captain), Rajani Etimarpu; Defenders: Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, Gurjit Kaur, Reena Khokhar; Midfielders: Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur, Nikki Pradhan; Forwards: Rani (Captain), Vandana Katariya, Navneet Kaur, Lalremsiami and Udita.