Hangzhou (China), Sep 4 (PTI) The Indian women's hockey team, grappling with injuries, aims to overcome past challenges and secure a triumphant opening against Thailand in the Asia Cup starting Friday.
World-ranked at ninth, India is the favorite against 30th-ranked Thailand in the Pool B encounter.
As the top-seeded team in their pool alongside Japan (12), Thailand, and Singapore (31), India is anticipated to lead their group, with Pool A featuring China, South Korea, Malaysia, and Chinese Taipei.
Ranking just behind world number four China in the tournament, the Asia Cup is crucial for all contenders as it is a gateway to next year's World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Post their game with Thailand, India will face off against Japan on Saturday and conclude their pool matches against Singapore on September 8.
Concerns over injuries to key players, such as veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia and skilled drag flicker Deepika, who were sidelined, pose challenges for the squad.
Savita's ankle injury and Deepika's last-minute withdrawal due to a training-related hamstring injury have impacted the lineup, with Sakshi stepping in for Deepika.
Deepika's dual role as forward and drag-flicker has made her a standout player for India, and her absence is a significant setback.
In their absence, experienced players like captain Salima Tete, Navneet Kaur, Udita, Neha, Sharmila Devi, and Lalremsiami are expected to shoulder more responsibility.
The team's performance this year has been rocky, particularly after being relegated from the FIH Pro League following a disheartening European stint.
India boasts two Asia Cup victories from 2004 and 2017 and will aim to build on its regional successes.
With Savita out, Bichu Devi Kharibam and Bansari Solanki will manage goalkeeping duties, while Udita, Nikki Pradhan, Manisha Chauhan, Ishika Chaudhary, and Suman Devi Thoudam form the defensive line.
The midfield presents a formidable roster with Neha, Salima, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke.
Navneet leads the forward attack with Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Beauty Dungdung, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, and Sakshi.
Chief Coach Harendra Singh is aware of the scrutiny, especially after the disappointing Pro League showing in Europe, with his task focusing on solidifying a leaky and inexperienced defense.
India’s defense weaknesses were apparent, conceding over 100 penalty corners and facing defensive challenges, with 23 out of the 43 goals allowed coming from set pieces.
The Asia Cup's format will see the top two teams from each pool advance to the Super 4s, culminating in a final on September 14.
India squad: Bansari Solanki (GK), Bichu Devi Kharibam (GK), Manisha Chauhan, Udita, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Neha, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Salima Tete (C), Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami, Sunelita Toppo, Navneet Kaur, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Beauty Dungdung, Mumtaz Khan, Sakshi, Sangita Kumari.
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