India women's hockey 2026

In early July 2026, Hockey India released a 20‑member squad for the Asian Games in Aichi‑Nagoya, confirming Salima Tete as captain. Coach Sjoerd Marijne highlighted a balance of junior and senior players and expressed confidence in the team's form and fitness.

A week later, the same captaincy was reaffirmed for the 2026 FIH World Cup, co‑hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium. The World Cup roster mirrored the Asian Games list, with key goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam, defenders such as Ishika Chaudhary and Sushila Chanu, midfielders Nikki Pradhan and Sakshi Rana, and forwards including Lalremsiami and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal. The team entered the tournament in Pool D alongside China, England and South Africa, aiming to build on its unbeaten run and recent Nations Cup victory.

As the World Cup approached in mid-August, Captain Salima Tete expressed her ambition to secure a medal despite the challenges of being placed in Pool D. Tete noted that the squad is riding a wave of momentum following their Nations Cup victory in New Zealand, emphasizing that the team is preparing with a winning mindset and clear strategic plans to face international opponents.

Goalkeeper Savita Punia has since reinforced this optimism, stating the team possesses the “skill, fitness, and mindset” required to compete for a podium finish. Marking her third consecutive World Cup appearance, Punia noted that the recent gold medal at the FIH Nations Cup has significantly boosted morale. To maintain focus during high-pressure matches in Pool D, Punia emphasized the importance of mental health and avoiding social media to “block out external noise.”