Bengaluru
Hockey India has announced the 18-member Indian Women's Hockey Team for the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024, scheduled from January 13 to 19. The team aims to secure qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics by finishing among the top three teams in the competition. Placed in Pool B, India will face tough opponents like New Zealand, Italy, and the United States. The tournament kicks off with India playing against the United States on January 13, followed by matches against New Zealand on January 14 and Italy on January 16. The squad includes goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam, defenders Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, and Monika. The midfield will feature Nisha, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Salima Tete, Sonika, Jyoti, and Beauty Dungdung. Forwards Lalremsiami, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, and Vandana Katariya will lead the attacking line. Savita, the experienced goalkeeper and three-time FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Award winner, will captain the team, with Vandana Katariya serving as the vice-captain. The FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 is a crucial step in India's journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics, and the team aims to meet expectations and secure qualification. Head Coach Janneke Schopman expressed confidence in the well-balanced team's skill and experience, emphasizing the leadership roles of Savita and Vandana in guiding the squad through high-pressure situations.
Indian Women's Hockey Team for FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024:
Goalkeepers: Savita (C), Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, Monika
Midfielders: Nisha, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Salima Tete, Sonika, Jyoti, Beauty Dungdung
Forwards: Lalremsiami, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, Vandana Katariya (VC)