Bangladesh hockey has another global target in sight as the country’s Under-20 men’s team begins a fresh Asian Cup campaign in China, hoping to repeat last year’s breakthrough and move closer to another World Cup appearance.
Bangladesh made history last year by playing in the Under-21 Junior World Cup, its first appearance on a global hockey stage. Amirul Islam added to that achievement by finishing as the tournament’s leading goalscorer.
Now the next generation has a chance to keep that momentum alive.
The Bangladesh Under-20 men’s and women’s teams leave Dhaka for China to compete in the Junior Asian Cup. Both squads have gone through long-term intensive preparation ahead of their meetings with Asia’s leading sides.
The men’s campaign carries an added incentive. If Bangladesh finishes sixth or higher, it will earn another opportunity to compete in the Asian Cup, keeping its route towards another World Cup appearance open.
The Bangladesh Hockey Federation has also invested in preparation for both teams, with foreign coaching staff working alongside the players. Officials remain particularly optimistic about the women’s side as Bangladesh looks to strengthen its presence in Asian hockey.
Before departure, the federation organised an event for both squads under the slogan, “One Team, One Dream, One Bangladesh”. A video presentation highlighted the country’s hockey heritage and showed the players’ preparations for the China mission.
Guests at the event praised the players’ hard work and expressed confidence in their chances of producing strong performances against some of Asia’s best teams.
The players and squads were then formally introduced during a colourful ceremony before both captains received the national flag.
