Seasoned midfielder Salima Tete will continue to lead the Indian women’s hockey team as it gears up for the Asia Cup in Hangzhou, China, from September 5 to 14. Hockey India on Thursday announced a 20-member strong squad for the competition, the winner of which will earn a direct qualification for the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Placed in Group B alongside Japan, Thailand, and Singapore, the Indian squad features a perfect blend of youth and experience. India will open its campaign against Thailand on September 5, followed by clashes with Japan (September 6) and Singapore (September 8).
The defence unit will be marshalled by experienced players like Nikki Pradhan and Udita, supported by youngsters Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary.
In the midfield, the team boasts strong names such as Neha, captain Salima, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, ensuring both creativity and stability.
The forward line includes a blend of seasoned campaigners and rising stars in Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal.
The goalkeeping duties will be handled by Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam providing depth under the post.
Commenting on the squad, chief coach Harendra Singh said, “We are excited about the squad we have selected for the Women’s Asia Cup in Hangzhou. The group has been training with great intensity, and we have tried to strike the right balance between experienced campaigners and young talent. Our focus will be on playing an aggressive and disciplined brand of hockey, and we believe this team has the capability to compete strongly against the best in Asia.”
He added, “The Women’s Asia Cup is not only a prestigious continental championship but also a direct qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup. With the winner earning an automatic berth, the stakes are extremely high. Every match will test our composure, fitness, and tactical execution. The players are motivated to rise to the occasion, and we are confident of delivering performances that make India proud.”
Indian women’s hockey squad for Asia Cup:
Goalkeepers: Bansari Solanki, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Manisha Chauhan, Udita, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary
Midfielders: Neha, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami, Sunelita Toppo
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Beauty Dungdung, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Sangita Kumari