New Delhi, July 15: The Indian women's hockey team, led by Sushila Chanu, are all set to start off strongly at USA Tour, where they will play 3 practice games against Canada and 2 against USA. The tour is the last of the many international exposure matches planned ahead of the upcoming Rio Olympics from August 5-21. The team will leave for USA today (July 15).

Apart from skipper, Sushila and supported by vice-captian Deepika Thakur, the squad includes the experience of Navjot Kaur, Deep Grace Ekka, Monika, Nikki Pradhan, Anuradha Devi Thokchom, Savita, Poonam Rani, Vandana Katariya, Namita Toppo, Renuka Yadav, Sunita Lakra, Rani, Preeti Dubey, Lilima Minz. And two reserve players, Hnialum Lal Ruat Feli, Rajani Etimmarpu.

"We have selected the best players for the squad who have earned their place purely on the basis of merit. These players have put forth their best performance, have displayed hunger and trained hard for the spot. This is the first time this team is going to experience the aura of being at the Olympics, it is a big moment for all of them. Each athlete in the team is both physically and mentally strong for the task ahead of us", said Chief Coach Neil Hawgood.

"While this is the happiest moment for us to be a part of the Olympics for the first time, there is an equal amount of responsibility. Every match before Rio is crucial and gives an opportunity to reinforce what we have learnt during the training. This tour will serve as the apt warm-up for Rio Olympics and every step from here takes us closer to turn the dream into a reality. Each player has only one mission on their mind and the Coach has given us immense support and confidence. Now it is our turn to play our best," said Captain Sushila Chanu.

India play their first match of the tour on July 18 (4 AM IST) against USA.

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India squad: Sushila Chanu (captain), Deepika (vice-captain), Navjot Kaur, Deep Grace Ekka, Monika, Nikki Pradhan, Anuradha Devi Thokchom, Savita (Goalkeeper), Poonam Rani, Vandana Katariya, Namita Toppo, Renuka Yadav, Sunita Lakra, Rani, Preeti Dubey, Lilima Minz. Reserves: Hnialum Lal Ruat Feli, Rajani Etimmarpu.

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The schedule (All matches in Manheim, Pennsylvania)

19 July (4 AM IST) - India Vs USA

21 July (4 AM IST) - India Vs USA

22 July (9 PM IST) - India Vs Canada

23 July (7.30 PM IST) - India Vs Canada

26 July (4 AM IST) - India Vs Canada

27 July (4 AM IST) - USA Vs Canada

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