Hockey: Ajmina Kujur Draws Inspiration from Late Father Ahead of India’s Tour of Australia

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India's upcoming tour of Australia could mark a career-defining moment for 23-year-old midfielder Ajmina Kujur, who has been named in the national squad for the five-match series.

The tour will begin with two games against Australia A on April 26 and 27, followed by three high-profile clashes with the Australian senior team on May 1, 3, and 4 at Perth Hockey Stadium.

Having waited patiently for her senior team debut, Ajmina is determined to seize the opportunity. "I am grateful that they have given me a chance to play now so I have to give my 100%. Two years ago, I was in the senior team camp but I didn't make it into the team. Now that I have been given this chance, I am going to ensure I make the most of it," she shared upon arriving in Australia.

Ajmina has been part of the national camp at SAI, Bengaluru, since March 23, preparing rigorously with the rest of the squad. Speaking about the experience, she said, "Training with the seniors has been a wonderful experience. I am learning a lot and I am excited to play with them ahead. Everyone has enjoyed training with each other and now it is time for us to give it our best against Australia."

She also credited the guidance of experienced players for helping her settle in. "The senior players are really helpful, especially Sushila di who has supported me a lot during the camp. She tells me every time I make a mistake and has taught me how to play to my strengths. I also tend to think a lot when I make an error but the senior players have helped me cope with it and I am a lot more confident now," she added.

Earlier this year, Ajmina was a key figure in the inaugural Hero Hockey India League (Women), where she played all seven matches for JSW Soorma Hockey Club, who finished as runners-up. She then featured for the Hockey Association of Odisha in the 15th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2025. Despite the team not making it out of the pool stage, her individual performance in midfield stood out. "I have been focusing on my fitness a lot more, which I think has really helped me improve my game," she said when asked about her recent form.

While the upcoming tour marks her first foray into the senior international scene in traditional field hockey, Ajmina has already represented India in the Hockey5s format. She played a crucial role in India's journey to the final of the FIH Women's Hockey5s World Cup in 2024. Although India fell to the Netherlands in the final, Ajmina netted three goals during the tournament and took great pride in one specific victory. "It was a special feeling to represent India at the Hockey5s World Cup. Although we lost the final against the Netherlands, the team played really well. After beating the USA, our confidence level increased a lot because it felt like we made the senior team proud," she said.

Hailing from Sundargarh in Odisha-a district synonymous with Indian hockey-Ajmina was drawn to the sport by her father and brothers who played in their village. She began playing at age 11, and though her father passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, his influence remains a constant source of inspiration.

"My father used to play and so did my brothers, so I watched them and my interest in the sport grew. Now that my father is not there, I am playing hockey for him, to make him proud. This is my biggest motivation," she said with emotion.

Looking ahead, Ajmina is focused on maintaining her spot in the team by performing well in Australia. "The plan is to play well, at every opportunity I get during this tour in Australia so that I stay in the squad for the upcoming FIH Hockey Pro League matches. In terms of my game, since I am a midfielder, I am working harder on my passing and I am trying to scan faster and play the ball quickly," she explained.

With her determination, growing confidence, and the memory of her father guiding her, Ajmina Kujur is poised to make her presence felt on the international stage.