Savita Punia Sets New Record as Most-Capped Player in Indian Women's Hockey
Savita Punia Achieves Historic Milestone
File image of Indian veteran hockey player Savita Punia(Photo: @sportsapna1/X)
Kakamigahara, Sep 21: Hockey India has recognized Savita Punia for becoming the most-capped player in the history of Indian women's hockey, celebrating her remarkable achievement as a reflection of "two decades of discipline and leadership." In honor of her accomplishment, a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh has been announced for the legendary goalkeeper.
Surpassing the previous record of 320 senior international appearances held by former striker Vandana Katariya, Savita reached this significant milestone during India's Pool B match against Indonesia at the ongoing Asian Games in Japan, further embellishing her illustrious career.
Renowned globally as ‘The Wall of India’ for her exceptional shot-stopping abilities and composure during penalty shoot-outs, the 36-year-old Savita made her senior international debut in 2009.
Since then, she has been a constant presence in three Olympic Games, two Asian Games, the Commonwealth Games, and numerous Asian Champions Trophy and FIH Pro League seasons, evolving from a promising young goalkeeper to the backbone and long-time captain of the Indian women's team before Salima Tete took over the captaincy.
In February 2025, Savita achieved her 300th international cap against the Netherlands in the FIH Hockey Pro League, becoming only the second Indian woman, after Vandana, to reach this milestone, and only the second Indian goalkeeper, following PR Sreejesh.
She matched Vandana’s all-time record of 320 caps on September 20, 2026, during India's impressive 19-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the Asian Games 2026 opener, before surpassing it on Monday.
The record she has now broken was previously held by Vandana, India’s all-time leading goal-scorer, who debuted in 2009 alongside Savita and retired in April 2025 after achieving 320 caps and scoring 158 goals. Her remarkable career included a historic hat-trick at the Tokyo Olympics and the Padma Shri award.
After the match, Savita expressed her gratitude, stating, “I want to start by saying thank you — to my family, my coaches, my teammates, and everyone who has supported me since I was a young girl learning to save my first penalty corner. Honestly, I never thought I would reach this milestone.”
“When I began, my goal was simply to earn my place in the team and make my family proud. I never imagined I would be recognized as the most-capped player in Indian women's hockey history. This record is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who has played alongside me, and to Vandana as well, for setting the standard and inspiring us to aim higher. My hope is that the younger generation sees this and believes they can achieve it too. I want them to continue growing, working hard, and dreaming big for Indian hockey. This sport has given me everything, and I will continue to give back for as long as I can.”
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey praised Savita's longevity, stating, "Savita's record is a testament to two decades of discipline and quiet leadership. She has been the backbone of this team, and today's milestone is thoroughly deserved."
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh added, "On behalf of Hockey India, congratulations to Savita on this historic achievement. Her journey serves as an inspiration for every young goalkeeper aspiring to wear the India jersey."
India’s women’s hockey team is currently competing at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, which also serves as a crucial pathway for qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.