The Indian Women’s Hockey team is set to kick off their campaign at the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup New Zealand 2025-26 in Auckland with the aim of securing promotion to the next year’s FIH Pro League. Led by captain Salima Tete, India will start their Pool A matches against the United States on June 15, followed by games against Japan on June 16 and Uruguay on June 18.
The tournament features eight national teams, with the victorious team earning a spot in the esteemed FIH Hockey Pro League. India is focused on a strong start in the pool stage to build momentum for the knockout rounds scheduled for June 20 and 21. This tournament offers crucial international exposure against top teams, aiding in the team’s readiness for major upcoming events like the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup and Asian Games 2026.
Following a competitive four-match tour of Australia, where they displayed resilience and tactical prowess, the Indian team is optimistic. Despite a tied series with Australia, India’s performance showcased their progress and readiness for the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup. Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparation and mindset, emphasizing the importance of staying composed and united throughout the tournament.
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey and secretary general Bhola Nath Singh extended their best wishes to the team, highlighting the significance of the Nations Cup in the team’s journey towards major international events. The tournament not only presents a chance for promotion but also an opportunity to strengthen the team’s foundation for future competitions. The entire squad is geared up for their pool stage fixtures against the United States, Japan, and Uruguay.
