New Delhi: Striker Rani Rampal will lead a 20-strong women’s hockey team for next month’s season-opening away series against Korea, where fit-again forward Poonam Rani will make a comeback.

India play five matches against the hosts at the Jinchun National Athletic Centre, from March 3 to 12.

v Sunita Lakra was named Rani’s deputy. With celebrated goalkeeper Savita rested for the tour, c will be joined by debutant Swati to guard the goalpost.

The defence will feature the experienced Suman Devi, who was out of action following knee surgery last year.

Team: Goalkeepers: Rajani Etimarpu, Swati. Defenders: Deepika, Sunita Lakra (v-c), Deep Grace Ekka, Suman Devi Thoudam, Gurjit Kaur, Sushila Chanu, Midfielders: Monika, Namita Toppo, Nikki Pradhan, Neha Goyal, Lilima Minz, Udita, Forwards: Rani (c), Vandana Katariya, Lalremsiami, Navjot Kaur, Navneet, Poonam Rani.