Hockey India on Thursday announced a 20-member women’s squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, with captain Salima Tete set to continue leading the national side at the continental event scheduled from September 19 to October 4.
Salima retains the captaincy after guiding India to the FIH Nations Cup title in New Zealand last month, where the team completed an unbeaten campaign to lift the trophy.
Head coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed confidence in the selected group, highlighting the balance between youth and experience within the squad.
“We have a group in which we have a nice balance between juniors, experienced players and seniors who are constantly working to get the best out of each other,” Marijne said.
Veteran goalkeeper Savita, who recently received the Padma Shri award, headlines the squad alongside Bichu Devi Kharibam as India’s two goalkeepers.
The defensive unit includes experienced campaigners Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary and Jyoti, while Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas retain their places after making their senior debuts during the victorious FIH Nations Cup campaign.
In midfield, Salima will marshal a group comprising Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha and Deepika Soreng.
India’s attacking line features Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung as the team looks to carry its recent momentum into the Asian Games.
Marijne believes the squad has earned its place through consistent performances and is well prepared for the challenge ahead.
“This group of players has shown that it has the right form and fitness in recent months. We are confident that this team is ready for the challenge at the Asian Games,” he said.
India Women’s Squad for the Asian Games:
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam.
Defenders: Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas.
Midfielders: Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Salima Tete (captain), Neha, Deepika Soreng.
Forwards: Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung.
