The Indian women's hockey team is set to face a challenging Asia Cup in Hangzhou from September 4 to 15 as they chase a coveted World Cup spot. The team's preparations have been complicated by key injuries to two of its most experienced players, forcing a shake-up of the 20-member squad.
Among the conspicuous absentees are veteran goalkeeper and former captain Savita Punia and midfielder Sushila Chanu. Savita is sidelined with a major ankle injury, while Sushila is struggling with a recurring knee problem. Their absence puts additional pressure on the rest of the team, particularly captain Salima Tete, who will have to shoulder a bigger leadership role. Goalkeeper Bichu Devi, Savita's long-time understudy, now has a crucial opportunity to step up and prove herself on a major international stage.
The squad also sees the return of defender Udita for her first outing since her marriage, with expectations high for her to shore up the team's defense. The Indian women, unlike their male counterparts, face a particularly tough road to a World Cup berth. They will have to navigate a strong field that includes Paris Olympics silver medallists and world No. 4 China, the host nation, and world No. 12 Japan.
Drawn into Pool B alongside Japan, Thailand, and Singapore, India's immediate goal of finishing in the top two of its group appears manageable. However, reaching and winning the final will be a significant challenge, especially with the host nation China looming as a major hurdle. Despite the setbacks, coach Harendra Singh remains optimistic. "The group has been training with great intensity and we have tried to strike the right balance between experienced campaigners and young talent," he said.
Singh emphasized the team’s focus on its on-field strategy. "Our focus will be on playing an aggressive and disciplined brand of hockey. Every match will test our composure, fitness, and tactical execution. The players are motivated to rise to the occasion."
Squad:
· 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 Pisal, Beauty Dungdung, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Sangita Kumari