Indian Squad Announced for FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026; Salima Tete to Lead; A Blend of Experience and Youth
Bengaluru: Hockey India has announced the 20-member Indian squad for the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15 to 30. Experienced player Salima Tete has been entrusted with the team's captaincy. Describing the squad as an excellent blend of experience and youthful energy,
Head Coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed confidence that the team is fully capable of mounting a strong challenge against the world's best teams. He said, “We have chosen a well-balanced group of players who are ready for the big challenges we will face this summer. The team has worked hard in the lead-up to the tournament and we are confident in this group’s abilities. We look forward to competing against the best teams in the world and showcasing our hockey on the biggest stage.”
Team is currently training hard in Bengaluru
The Indian team is currently training hard at the national camp in Bengaluru. The team will head into the World Cup buoyed by the confidence gained from winning the Nations Cup title while remaining unbeaten.
India in Pool D
India has been placed in Pool D alongside China, England, and South Africa. The team will kick off its campaign against China on August 16, followed by crucial group matches against South Africa on August 18 and England on August 20.
Key Players
The squad includes experienced goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam, while the defense has been bolstered by players like Sushila Chanu and Ishika Chaudhary.
Captain Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan will shoulder the responsibilities in the midfield. The forward line will feature the attacking synergy of players such as Navneet Kaur, Lalremsiami, and Deepika. The players are fully prepared and aim to maintain their winning momentum at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in the Netherlands.
Team
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas
Midfielders: Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Salima Tete (c), Neha, Deepika Soreng
Forwards: Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung