Hockey India has announced a 20-member Indian women’s hockey squad for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, with Salima Tete retaining the captaincy after the team’s FIH Nations Cup triumph.
Salima Tete to lead India's 20-member squad for Asian Games/ Credit: Hockey India
Hockey India on Friday announced a 20-member Indian women’s hockey squad for the 20th Asian Games, to be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, with Salima Tete retaining the captaincy after leading the team to the FIH Nations Cup title last month.
Experienced goalkeeper Savita, recently honoured with the Padma Shri, and Bichu Devi Kharibam have been named as the two goalkeepers in the squad, which blends youth with experience as India aims to challenge for Asian Games glory.
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The defence will be led by Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, alongside Ishika Chaudhary, Jyoti, Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas. Lalthantluangi and Shilpi earned places in the squad after impressive performances on their senior international debut during India’s unbeaten FIH Nations Cup-winning campaign in New Zealand.
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Captain Salima will marshal the midfield alongside Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha and Deepika Soreng.
The forward line features Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung.
Head coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed confidence in the selected group, highlighting the balance within the squad.
“We have a group with a nice balance between juniors, experienced players and seniors who are constantly working to get the best out of each other,” Marijne said.
“This group of players has shown that they have the right form and fitness in recent months. We are confident that this team is ready for the challenge at the Asian Games,” he added.
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas
Midfielders: Salima Tete (captain), Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha, Deepika Soreng
Forwards: Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung
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