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Injured Rupinder Pal Singh ruled out of Asia Cup, Birendra Lakra to lead India in Jakarta

YB WEB DESK. Dated: 5/14/2022 2:29:37 PM

New Delhi, May 13 India will miss captain Rupinder Pal Singh when they begin their Asia Cup campaign in Jakarta as the star drag-flicker has been ruled out of the tournament with an injury. India, the defending champions will begin their campaign in the 11th edition of the tournament against Pakistan on May 23. In Rupinder's absence, Birendra Lakra has been named as the captain of the men's hockey team. Experienced forward SV Sunil will take over the role of the vice-captain of the 20-man squad. Initially, Rupinder was named as the captain of the squad that has a good mix of youth and experience with as many as 10 new faces in the mix. Nilam Sanjeep Xess replaced Rupinder Pal Singh in the 20-man squad. Former captain Sardar Singh will also accompany the squad in a coaching role. India have been drawn alongside Pakistan, Japan and Indonesia in Pool A while Malaysia, South Africa, Oman and Bangladesh are part of the other pool. "It is unfortunate that Rupinder has picked up an injury during the training session and will not be a part of the Asia Cup.