Salima Tete to Lead Indian Women's Hockey Team in Asia Cup

New Delhi, Aug 21 (PTI): On Thursday, seasoned midfielder Salima Tete was confirmed as captain of the 20-member Indian women's hockey team set to compete in the Asia Cup in Hangzhou, China, from September 5 to 14. The tournament is crucial, as the winner earns a direct entry into the 2026 FIH Women's Hockey World Cup. India finds itself in Pool B, alongside Japan, Thailand, and Singapore. The Indian team will kick off its campaign against Thailand on September 5, followed by a game against Japan on September 6. India's final pool-stage match will be against Singapore on September 8.

"We are enthusiastic about the squad we've chosen for the women's Asia Cup in Hangzhou," stated Chief Coach Harendra Singh in a press release from Hockey India. The 27-year-old Salima has been a key member of this team since being named captain last year. "The group has been training with high intensity, and we've aimed to balance experienced players with young talent," Singh added.

"Our strategy is to play aggressive and disciplined hockey, and we believe this team can compete strongly with Asia's best," he emphasized. The coach underlined the importance of maintaining focus throughout the tournament, stating that each match will test the team's composure, fitness, and tactical acumen. The players are committed to performing at a high level, and we are confident of delivering performances that will make India proud.

The squad features a well-balanced blend of youth and experience. Goalkeepers Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam provide depth in the goalkeeping department. The defense is led by seasoned players like Nikki Pradhan and Udita, with support from younger talents such as Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary. In midfield, the squad includes strong players like Neha, Salima, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, ensuring creativity and stability. The forward line boasts a mix of experienced and emerging players, including Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal. However, veterans Savita and Sushila Chanu, who participated in the European leg of the FIH Pro League, are absent from this squad.

India's Squad for Women's Asia Cup: GOALKEEPERS: 1. Bansari Solanki, 2. Bichu Devi Kharibam; DEFENDERS: 3. Manisha Chauhan, 4. Udita, 5. Jyoti, 6. Suman Devi Thoudam, 7. Nikki Pradhan, 8. Ishika Chaudhary; MIDFIELDERS: 9. Neha, 10. Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, 11. Salima Tete, 12. Sharmila Devi, 13. Lalremsiami, 14. Sunelita Toppo; FORWARDS: 15. Navneet Kaur, 16. Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, 17. Beauty Dungdung, 18. Mumtaz Khan, 19. Deepika, 20. Sangita Kumari.

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