Hockey India has announced a 20-member Indian Women’s Hockey Team squad for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Hyderabad, Telangana, from 8 to 14 March 2026.
Eight teams — India, England, Scotland, Korea, Italy, Uruguay, Wales and Austria — will compete for three qualification spots at the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026 in August.
England, Korea, Italy and Austria form Pool A, while hosts India are placed in Pool B alongside Scotland, Uruguay and Wales.
Salima Tete to lead the side
Experienced midfielder Salima Tete will continue as captain, anchoring the team in midfield.
Goalkeeping duties will be shared by Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam.
The defensive unit includes Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan, Manisha Chauhan, Udita and Ishika Chaudhary.
In midfield, Salima Tete is joined by Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal and Deepika Soreng.
The forward line features Navneet Kaur, Ishika, Lalremsiami, Beauty Dungdung, Baljeet Kaur and Annu, providing attacking depth and scoring options.
Coach Marijne confident ahead of opener
Recently appointed chief coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed optimism before the tournament.
“We are really looking forward to our first tournament together. We have been working on the fitness and the tactics, so everybody understands their tasks and role in the team. We will play two practice matches in Hyderabad to be fully ready for the matches ahead,” he said.
India will begin their campaign against Uruguay on 8 March, followed by matches against Scotland on 9 March and Wales on 11 March.
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