Salima Tete Named Captain of Indian Women’s Hockey Team for 2026 World Cup

India's women's hockey team has appointed Salima Tete as captain for the 2026 FIH World Cup, which will be co‑hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium from 15 to 30 August. Hockey India unveiled a 20‑member squad that blends experience with youth, training at the national camp in Bengaluru.

The team will compete in Pool D alongside China, England and South Africa, with all pool matches scheduled at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen. Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne said, "We have chosen a well‑balanced group of players who are ready for the big challenges we will face this summer," adding confidence in the squad’s ability to showcase Indian hockey on the world stage. Recent form includes an unbeaten run and a trophy win at the FIH Nations Cup in New Zealand.

Key squad members include goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam; defenders such as Ishika Chaudhary and Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam; midfielders Nikki Pradhan and Sakshi Rana; and forwards like Lalremsiami and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal. The team aims to deliver a strong performance and make the nation proud at the tournament.