Hockey India has revealed the women’s squad for the upcoming FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland, New Zealand from June 15 to 21. Salima Tete will lead the team as the captain during the tournament, supported by experienced goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam. The defensive lineup includes players like Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary, Nikki Pradhan, and Jyoti, who bring valuable international experience to the team.
Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas, who earned their first senior call-ups during the recent Australia tour, will join the squad. In the midfield, Salima will be supported by Neha, Sunelita Toppo, and Sakshi Rana. Additionally, Navneet Kaur will lead the attack, aiming to continue her impressive goalscoring form from recent matches. The forward line will see a mix of speed and creativity with players like Deepika, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Annu, Ishika, Lalremsiami, and Sonam.
India’s women’s team heads to the Nations Cup after a successful tour of Australia, where they played a four-match friendly series in Perth. The team secured a 2-2 draw against the hosts across the competitive games. The upcoming tournament will see India placed in Pool A alongside Japan, the United States, and Uruguay, while Pool B includes New Zealand, Chile, Korea, and France.
Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne highlighted the importance of the team’s preparations for the upcoming phase, starting with the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup New Zealand 2025-26. Marijne expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness for the challenge, emphasizing the need to maintain a high level of performance consistently throughout the tournament. The squad, a blend of experienced and developing players, is geared up for the competition in Auckland.
India’s campaign in the Nations Cup will kick off against the United States on June 15, followed by matches against Japan and Uruguay. The semi-finals are scheduled for June 20, with the final set to take place on June 21.
