Hockey India has revealed the Indian Women’s Hockey team for the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy, which will take place in Rajgir, Bihar, from November 11-20. Defending champions India, who secured the title last year with a 4-0 victory over Japan, will once again be led by the skilled midfielder Salima Tete, while forward Navneet Kaur will serve as the vice-captain.
Salima Tete, expressing her excitement for the tournament, said, “It’s an incredible feeling to lead the team into another major tournament, especially as defending champions. We have trained rigorously and have a strong unit with both experienced players and young talent. Our goal is to defend our title and play with the same passion and determination we showed last year.”
India’s campaign will kick off with a match against Malaysia on November 11, followed by contests against Korea, Thailand, China, and finally Japan. This high-stakes tournament will feature six competing teams: China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand.
The team’s defensive core is robust, with Udita, Jyoti, Ishika Chaudhary, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, and veteran Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam providing stability. In the midfield, Tete will lead a dynamic group including Neha, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, and Lalremsiami, known for their fast-paced and strategic gameplay.
The forward line, crucial for India’s scoring, features the experienced Navneet Kaur alongside Preeti Dubey, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, and Beauty Dungdung, who adds fresh energy as she returns post-rehabilitation alongside defender Sushila Chanu.
Vice-captain Navneet Kaur noted the morale boost of playing on home turf, saying, “We are confident in our preparation and the chemistry we’ve built within the team. Playing in front of our home crowd is a huge boost, and we are ready to face tough competition from the best teams in Asia.”
She praised her leadership dynamic with Tete, adding, “Working alongside Salima has been great, and we are determined to make this tournament a memorable one.”
The tournament offers India an opportunity to build on their recent successes and showcase a well-rounded team mix of youth and experience. With a determined squad and home support, India is set to make a strong bid to retain their title at the Asian Champions Trophy.
India’s Squad for Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024:
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Udita, Jyoti, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary
Midfielders: Neha, Salima Tete (C), Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, Lalremsiami
Forwards: Navneet Kaur (VC), Preeti Dubey, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung
