Auckland: Hockey India has announced the Indian women’s hockey squad for the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2025-26, scheduled to be held in Auckland, New Zealand, from June 15 to June 21. Salima Tete will continue to lead the side as India aims for a strong performance in the prestigious tournament.
The tournament is an important step in India’s preparations for upcoming international assignments, including the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup and the Asian Games. The squad combines experienced campaigners with emerging talent, reflecting the team’s focus on building depth and consistency at the highest level.
Experienced core retained for Nations Cup
India’s goalkeeping department will be handled by experienced custodians Savita Punia and Bichu Devi Kharibam, both of whom have played crucial roles in recent international competitions.
The defensive unit features seasoned players including Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan and Jyoti. They will be joined by promising youngsters Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas, who impressed during India’s recent tour of Australia and earned continued opportunities at the senior level.
The midfield will be led by captain Salima Tete, supported by players such as Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana and Deepika Soreng. The group is expected to provide energy, creativity and control in the centre of the pitch.
Navneet Kaur to spearhead attack
India’s attacking responsibilities will largely rest on the shoulders of Navneet Kaur, who has been in impressive goalscoring form in recent international matches.
The forward line also includes Deepika, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika and Annu. Experienced attacking midfielders Lalremsiami and Sonam are expected to provide additional support, giving India a balanced and dynamic attacking setup.
The team heads into the Nations Cup after a productive tour of Australia, where India played a four-match friendly series against the hosts in Perth. The series helped the coaching staff assess combinations and evaluate player performances ahead of the Auckland competition. India managed to hold Australia to a 2-2 draw across the series, providing confidence ahead of the tournament.
India placed in Pool A
India have been drawn in Pool A alongside Japan, United States and Uruguay.
Pool B consists of hosts New Zealand, Chile, South Korea and France.
India will begin their campaign against the United States on June 15 before taking on Japan on June 16. Their final pool-stage match will be against Uruguay on June 18. The semi-finals are scheduled for June 20, while the final will be played on June 21.
Coach confident ahead of key tournament
Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne emphasised the importance of the Nations Cup in India’s long-term development plans.
He said the team has used recent tours to strengthen key aspects of its game and is now focused on maintaining that standard throughout the tournament. Marijne also highlighted the balance of experience and youth within the squad, expressing confidence that the group is prepared to meet the challenges ahead.
With a blend of proven performers and emerging talent, India will be aiming to make a strong statement in Auckland and build momentum for future international competitions.
India squad for FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary, Lalthantluangi, Shilpi Dabas, Jyoti, Nikki Pradhan
Midfielders: Salima Tete (Captain), Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Deepika Soreng, Sonam, Lalremsiami
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika, Annu