As we build up towards the FIH Women’s Junior World Cup, which springs into action on 1 April in Potchefstroom, South Africa, here is a preview of the teams that comprise Pool B.
Pool B: England, Ireland, South Africa
Since it was finally not possible for Ukraine to reach South Africa it was finally not possible for Ukraine to reach South Africa and play this FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup, Pool B will involve three teams only, namely the hosts, South Africa, as well as England and Ireland. Nevertheless, Ukraine will for sure be even more in everyone’s thoughts as the event starts. Ukraine should even have played the opening match against Ireland …
Now, the curtain raiser will see England facing the host nation South Africa, with both teams looking to get a good result from which to start their campaign. For South Africa, this will be an emotional experience. Indeed, this is the first time that a FIH Hockey World Cup has taken place on African soil and, after the disruptions of the past few months, including a postponement of the event, to finally step out on the pitch will provide an even higher level of motivation for the team in green.
Christa Ramasimong of the South Africa national team says: ‘Playing on home turf just gives you an extra boost because you know that you’re actually playing for more and people at home are looking at you. I feel that in South Africa, a lot of people don’t know much about hockey, but this is going to be a new introduction into South Africa, a new culture in our sports.’
England’s squad is relatively new with many players recently moving to the senior team, so this is a chance for players such as scoring sensation Maddie Axford and goalkeeper Mila Welch to shine. England has never finished in the medals at the Junior World Cup, the highest finish was fourth in 2013. But as England’s captain Millie Giglio says: ‘We are out to do our best in every single game but if we come out with a medal that will be great. We have a great side, with a lot of potential so a medal is always on the table.’
For Ireland, it will be a first appearance at this competition. The Junior Green Army was invited after other teams, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Belgium and Spain withdrew due to ongoing pandemic circumstances. Ireland’s Christina Hamill says the team in green have been motivated by the performance of their senior women at the 2018 World Cup, when they won silver against all the odds. “I think it’s a privilege to be involved and to get to play in such a high-end tournament. Hopefully we’ll come back with a medal around our neck”, she added.
The complete match schedule can be viewed here
