Hockey India on Wednesday has announced a 24-member women’s team for the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25, set to begin on February 15 at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium. India will face England, the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany in the tournament, with each team playing twice.
Dynamic midfielder Salima Tete will lead the Indian squad, while forward Navneet Kaur will serve as vice-captain. The team includes experienced players such as goalkeepers Savita Punia and Bichu Devi Kharibam, along with defenders Nikki Pradhan, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, and Udita.
Midfielders like Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, and Salima Tete are expected to play key roles, while forwards such as Navneet Kaur, Vandana Katariya, and Mumtaz Khan will look to create scoring opportunities. Young players like Sharmila Devi and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal also make the squad.
The Indian team will rely on a strong mix of experience and youthful energy as they face top international teams. Coach Harendra Singh expressed confidence in the squad’s preparation and potential, especially with the impressive performances seen in the Women’s Hockey India League.
Sonam, who showed great promise in the league, is expected to make her senior international debut during the tournament.
Box
Full Squad: Savita Punia, Bichu Devi Kharibam (Goalkeepers), Nikki Pradhan, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, Jyoti Chhatri (Defenders), Vaishnavi Phalke, Neha, Salima Tete, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Baljeet Kaur (Midfielders), Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Vandana Katariya, Deepika, Preeti Dubey, Rutaja Pisal, Beauty Dungdung, Mumtaz Khan (Forwards).
