India, May 20 -- Indian junior women's hockey team head coach Tim White has praised the growing talent pool in the country's age-group national pathway during his scouting visit to the ongoing India-Australia U-18 exposure series here.

White, who took charge of the U-21 national setup in Bengaluru six weeks ago, emphasised the importance of building a strong connection between the youth tiers and the senior national team.

Speaking on his observations from the stands and his collaboration with the U-18 coaching staff, White said, "I was incredibly curious to come to Bhopal and evaluate the U-18 group because this is our direct talent pipeline. I've had some excellent interactions and connections with Rani (Rampal), who is doing a stellar...