Bengaluru
The Indian women’s hockey team has left for Hangzhou, China, to compete in the Women’s Asia Cup 2025. The 20-member squad, led by captain Salima Tete, is aiming not only to win the continental title but also to secure qualification for the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026.
Speaking before departure, skipper Salima stressed the importance of starting strong. “Our focus is to top our Pool, reach the Super Fours, and then fight step by step for the trophy,” she said. India are placed in Pool B alongside Japan, Thailand, and Singapore. Their campaign begins against Thailand on September 5, followed by matches against Japan on September 6 and Singapore on September 8.
The team has a solid balance of youth and experience. Goalkeepers Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam provide strength under the posts, while defenders Nikki Pradhan and Udita will lead a backline supported by youngsters Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary.
In midfield, creativity and stability come from players like Neha, captain Salima, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke. The forward line features experienced names such as Navneet Kaur and Sangita Kumari, alongside promising talents Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal. India have a strong record in the Asia Cup, having won the title in 2004 and again in 2017. They finished third in the last edition.
