Deepika credits specialised camps as India reach Nations Cup semis

India drag-flick specialist Deepika credited the specialised training camps organised for the national women’s hockey team for helping players improve their skills and deliver strong performances at the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland.

India booked a place in the semifinals after topping Pool A with victories over the United States, Japan and Uruguay, moving a step closer to securing qualification for the FIH Pro League.

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“The specialised camp allowed us to work closely with experienced coaches and focus on parts of our game that need attention. The guidance and feedback we received were invaluable. I am thankful to Hockey India for creating and supporting opportunities like this that help us keep learning, growing, and performing better,” Deepika said.

Five players who attended the specialised camps conducted by Anandana have played important roles in India’s unbeaten run so far.

Deepika has been one of India’s standout performers at the tournament. The Haryana player scored two penalty-corner goals in India’s opening win over the United States and added two more goals against Uruguay as India secured a 3-2 victory to finish on top of the group. With four goals, she is currently the joint top-scorer of the tournament.

Goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam have also impressed, providing assurance at the back and helping India maintain a solid defensive record throughout the pool stage.
Defender Lalthantluangi and forward Annu have also made significant contributions as India progressed through the group phase without a defeat.

The preparations included an 11-day specialised goalkeeping camp at the Sports Authority of India centre in Bengaluru. Conducted by renowned goalkeeping coach David Williamson under the supervision of chief coach Sjoerd Marijne, the camp focused on improving technical skills, game awareness and decision-making.

Players also benefited from a specialised drag-flicking and penalty-corner camp conducted by former international drag-flick expert Taeke Taekema during India’s tour of Australia and New Zealand. The sessions were designed to improve penalty-corner conversion and strengthen overall team preparation.

Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey praised the impact of the training initiatives and the performances of the players at the Nations Cup.

“It’s wonderful to see these athletes performing so well at the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup. Savita and Bichu have been exceptional in goal; Deepika’s penalty corner strikes against the USA were remarkable. We are proud of their achievements,” Tirkey said.