NewKerala.com

England Women's Hockey Team Arrives in Hyderabad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

The England women's national hockey team has landed in Hyderabad to compete in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers from March 8-14. The tournament is the last opportunity for teams to qualify for the 16-nation World Cup to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands in 2026. England, with a legacy of 11 World Cup appearances and a bronze medal in 2010, is focused on navigating Pool A against Italy, Korea, and Austria. The team expressed confidence and has prepared for the local conditions, including using saunas to acclimatize to the Indian heat.

Key Points: England Women's Hockey Team in Hyderabad for FIH World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

  • Final chance to qualify for 2026 World Cup
  • Eight teams competing in two pools
  • Top two from each pool advance to semis
  • Three qualification spots available
2 min read

England women's hockey team reaches Hyderabad for FIH World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

England's women's hockey team arrives in Hyderabad for the FIH World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, aiming to secure a spot in the final tournament in Belgium & Netherlands.

"The team is in a great place right now, and we're really looking forward to getting started. - Flora Peel"

Hyderabad, Feb 28

The England women's national hockey team has arrived in Hyderabad to participate in the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, taking place in Hyderabad, Telangana, from March 8 to 14.

The event offers the final chance for teams to reach the 16-nation World Cup in Wavre and Amstelveen (August 15-30, 2026). Eight teams compete in two pools: Pool A features Austria, England, Italy and Korea; Pool B includes India, Scotland, Uruguay and Wales.

The top two from each pool advance to the semifinals. The two semifinal winners and bronze medalist qualify, plus the highest-ranked fourth-place finisher across both qualifier events. Matches run at the G. M. C. Balayogi Hockey Ground, with semifinals on March 13 and finals on March 14.

England enter the eight-nation tournament with a proud legacy. Having participated in 11 past FIH World Cups, the team is eager to earn their spot in Belgium and the Netherlands. Their ultimate goal is to improve upon their highest finish, winning a Bronze medal in 2010.

The squad arrives with high energy and a well-defined focus. Upon their arrival, Captain Flora Peel voiced her confidence in the team's current form. "We've had a really good training block in England, and before that, we were out in China for the Pro League with some very competitive games. The team is in a great place right now, and we're really looking forward to getting started."

Talking about familiarity with the Indian condition, Lili Walker shared the group's excitement and their unique way of acclimating to the Indian climate. "A lot of the group has been to India before, and we're really excited for the crowds and the atmosphere during the games. To prepare for the heat, we've even been getting in the sauna, doing as much as we can to ensure we are fully ready for the conditions," she said.

To secure one of the three coveted World Cup spots, England must navigate Pool A. Their campaign begins against Italy on March 8, continues with the Republic of Korea on March 9, and concludes the group stage versus Austria on March 11.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Interesting that they're using saunas to prepare for Hyderabad's heat! Smart move. February-March can be quite warm already. Hope the local organizers ensure all teams have proper facilities and hydration. The qualifier format seems tough but fair. Let's go, India!
A
Aditya G
England has a strong legacy in hockey. It's great for the sport that such teams are coming to India for qualifiers. Shows our growing capability to host world-class events. Hope this boosts interest in women's hockey locally. The matches should be thrilling!
S
Sarah B
As someone who follows international hockey, it's fantastic to see this coverage. England vs Korea will be a key match in Pool A. I do wish the article gave a bit more insight into the Indian team's preparation though. The focus seems very much on the visitors.
K
Karthik V
Hyderabad zindabad! 🎉 Make sure you try the biryani, team England! On a serious note, the qualifiers are crucial. With only 3 spots (+1 for 4th place), the competition will be fierce. Our Indian team has a good pool on paper, but must not underestimate Scotland or Wales.
M
Meera T
It's wonderful to see women's sports getting this platform. The fact that the bronze medalist also qualifies is a good rule—keeps the 3rd/4th place playoff very meaningful. Hoping for a great tournament and safe play for all athletes. Jai Hind!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50