Ranchi, April 12 -- Hockey Jharkhand successfully defended their title to emerge champions of the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women National Championship 2026 in Ranchi, Jharkhand, after defeating Hockey Madhya Pradesh in a closely fought Division 'A' final, according to a release.

Meanwhile, the Hockey Association of Odisha secured the Bronze medal, overcoming Uttar Pradesh Hockey in the 3rd/4th place match.

The summit clash lived up to expectations, with hosts Hockey Jharkhand edging past Hockey Madhya Pradesh 2-1 in a gripping encounter. Sugan Sanga (5') handed Jharkhand an early advantage by converting a penalty corner, but Nammi Geethasri (37') brought Madhya Pradesh back on level terms in the second half. With both teams locked a...