Hockey India has disclosed a 24-player Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the upcoming tour of Argentina in Buenos Aires from April 13 to 17. This four-match series against the top Argentine team is crucial for India’s international schedule, leading up to the FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium & the Netherlands 2026 and the Asian Games. The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising new talent, reflecting the growth of Indian women’s hockey and the high expectations set by head coach Sjoerd Marijne.
Experienced midfielder Salima Tete will lead the team, bringing composure, intelligence, and energy to India’s midfield. The return of forward Deepika, after rehab, is highly anticipated. Deepika’s role as India’s main drag-flicker will be vital in the upcoming year, enhancing the team’s balance and strength. Players like Navneet Kaur, Manisha Chauhan, Udita, and Annu have stepped up in Deepika’s absence, with Annu showcasing exceptional drag-flicking skills during the qualifiers.
Navneet Kaur has emerged as a key player in Indian women’s hockey over the past year, playing a central role in India’s preparations for the upcoming season. Savita, India’s veteran goalkeeper, rejoins the squad after missing recent qualifiers, providing a strong defense against Argentina’s challenging team. Bichu Devi’s performance in Savita’s absence demonstrated India’s depth in goalkeeping, fostering healthy competition for the goalkeeper position.
Defender Jyoti and forward Mumtaz Khan, who missed the qualifiers, have returned to the team. Baljeet Kaur’s consistent attacking prowess and goal-scoring ability have solidified her position in Indian hockey. Midfielder Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke’s impressive performance and creative play have made her a reliable choice for the team, aiming to further develop her skills against top international teams. Young talents like Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika, and Sakshi Rana have shown promise and determination since their debuts, gaining valuable experience against tough opponents like Argentina.
Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne emphasized the importance of the tour in providing international exposure to more players and testing them against strong opponents like Argentina. The tour will consist of four matches against Argentina on April 13, 14, 16, and 17.
