Indian Women's Hockey Team Announced for FIH Nations Cup 2025-26

Announcement of the Women's Team

On Tuesday, Hockey India revealed the roster for the Indian Women's Team set to compete in the FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup in New Zealand, taking place from June 15 to 21 in Auckland. Salima Tete will continue her role as captain for this tournament.

Squad Composition: Experience Meets Youth

The goalkeeping duties will be handled by Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam, both of whom bring a wealth of experience. The defensive lineup includes Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary, Nikki Pradhan, and Jyoti, all of whom have significant international exposure. They will be joined by Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas, who recently received their first senior call-ups during the Australian tour and are eager to advance their skills.

In the midfield, Salima will lead alongside Neha, Sunelita Toppo, and Sakshi Rana, with Deepika Soreng also making an impression during the friendly matches in Australia.

Offensive Strategy and Key Players

Navneet Kaur will lead the attack, aiming to maintain her impressive scoring streak from recent international matches. She will be supported by Deepika, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Annu, and Ishika, along with seasoned attacking midfielders Lalremsiami and Sonam. This combination promises a dynamic mix of speed, creativity, and precision in front of the goal.

Preparation and Group Stage Details

The Indian team enters the Nations Cup following a successful tour in Australia, where they participated in a four-match friendly series in Perth. This experience was crucial for the squad, allowing Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne to evaluate the players. The team managed to secure a 2-2 draw against the Australian side over the series.

In the tournament, India is placed in Pool A alongside Japan, the United States, and Uruguay, while Pool B features New Zealand, Chile, Korea, and France.

Coach's Insights on Team Goals

Chief Coach Marijne emphasized the significance of the team's preparation for this pivotal phase, which includes the Nations Cup, the FIH World Cup, and the Asian Games. He stated, "The Nations Cup is a vital tournament for us. We aim to compete with ambition and establish a standard for future performances. Our tours in Argentina and Australia have set a solid foundation for the team. Now, we need to demonstrate that level consistently throughout the tournament. The squad is eager and prepared for the challenge."

Regarding the squad selection, Marijne noted, "We have assembled a team that balances experience and enthusiasm. Players like Savita, Sushila, Nikki, and Navneet have participated in major tournaments and understand the pressure. Simultaneously, we have emerging talents who will benefit from this competitive environment. I am excited to see how this group performs in Auckland."

Match Schedule for India

India will kick off their Nations Cup journey against the United States on Monday, June 15, at 16:15 IST. They will then face Japan on Tuesday, June 16, at 18:30 IST, and conclude the pool stage with a match against Uruguay on Thursday, June 18, at 16:15 IST. The semi-finals are set for Saturday, June 20, with the final taking place on Sunday, June 21.

Complete Squad for FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup 2025-26

Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam

Defenders: Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary, Lalthantluangi, Shilpi Dabas, Jyoti, Nikki Pradhan

Midfielders: Salima Tete (c), Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Deepika Soreng, Sonam, Lalremsiami

Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika, Annu.