Indian Women's Hockey Team Prepares for Upcoming International Challenges
Senior Women's National Coaching Camp Announcement
Hockey India (HI) has scheduled a Senior Women's National Coaching Camp from April 1 to 9, marking the beginning of preparations for the Indian Women's Hockey Team as they gear up for a significant international season.
Focus on a Busy 2026 Season
Following a commendable performance at the recent FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers held in Hyderabad, where they earned a Silver Medal, the team is set to qualify for the upcoming FIH Hockey Women's World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands in 2026. The camp aims to enhance team combinations, boost fitness levels, and refine tactical skills under the guidance of new coach Sjoerd Marijne.
Upcoming Competitions
This camp is particularly vital as India prepares for the FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup 2026 in June, the FIH Hockey Women's World Cup in August, and the Asian Games scheduled from September 19 to October 4, 2026, in Japan.
Core Group of 31 Players Announced
The goalkeeping squad includes Savita, Madhuri Kindo, Bansari Solanki, and Bichu Devi Kharibam, who recently received the Hockey India Baljit Singh Award for Goalkeeper of the Year. The defense features experienced players like Nikki Pradhan and Udita, along with Ishika Chaudhary, Jyoti Singh, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, and Shilpi Dabas.
In the midfield, Captain Salima Tete leads alongside Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Manisha Chauhan, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, and Neha, with promising talents like Sakshi Rana, who won the Hockey India Asunta Lakra Award for Upcoming Player of the Year, and Sunelita Toppo.
The forward line is packed with talent, including Navneet Kaur, the recipient of the Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year (Women), along with Deepika, Lalremsiami, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika Soreng, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Baljeet Kaur, Annu, Beauty Dungdung, Hina Bano, Sonam, and Sangita Kumari (Rehab).
Insights from Coach Sjoerd Marijne
Coach Sjoerd Marijne emphasized the importance of this camp, stating, "This camp is the next step in our preparations for a very competitive season ahead. Our focus will be on improving consistency, refining our structures, and ensuring that we are physically and mentally ready for the challenges ahead. We want to build a squad that can perform under pressure and deliver in key moments during major tournaments like the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup and Asian Games."
Complete Roster for the Senior National Coaching Camp
GOALKEEPERS
1. Savita
2. Madhuri Kindo
3. Bichu Devi Kharibam
4. Bansari Solanki
DEFENDERS
5. Nikki Pradhan
6. Ishika Chaudhary
7. Jyoti Singh
8. Lalthantluangi
9. Jyoti
10. Udita
11. Shilpi Dabas
MIDFIELDERS
12. Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam
13. Manisha Chauhan
14. Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke
15. Sakshi Rana
16. Sunelita Toppo
17. Salima Tete
18. Neha
19. Ishika
FORWARDS
20. Deepika Soreng
21. Rutaja Dadaso Pisal
22. Baljeet Kaur
23. Navneet Kaur
24. Deepika
25. Annu
26. Beauty Dungdung
27. Hina Bano
28. Sonam
29. Lalremsiami
30. Mumtaz Khan
31. Sangita Kumari (Rehab).