Salima to lead India at FIH Women's World Cup in Netherlands and Belgium
New Delhi, July 17
Salima Tete will lead India at the FIH Women's World Cup 2026, as Hockey India announced the 20-member squad that chief coach Sjoerd Marijne has described as a well-balanced group.
The showpiece tournament, which will be hosted jointly by the Netherlands and Belgium, is scheduled to be held from 15 to 30 August 2026.
The squad, currently training at the national camp in Bengaluru, features a mix of experienced campaigners and promising young players, who impressed everyone during recent international assignments - most notably at the FIH Nations Cup in New Zealand last month, where the team lifted the trophy and remained unbeaten.
Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam are the two goalkeepers named in the squad, while the defense unit comprises Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti and Shilpi Dabas.
In the midfield, captain Salima will be joined by Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha and Deepika Soreng.
The forward line features Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung.
Speaking about the selected squad, coach Marijne said, "We have chosen a well-balanced group of players who are ready for the big challenges we will face this summer. The team has worked hard in the lead-up to the tournament and we are confident in this group's abilities. We look forward to competing against the best teams in the world and showcasing our hockey on the biggest stage."
The Indian team has been drawn in Pool D, alongside China, England and South Africa. It will play all its pool-stage matches at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands, and open campaign against China on August 16, followed by matches against South Africa on August 18 and England on August 20.
India's 20-member squad for the FIH Hockey Women's World Cup 2026:
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas
Midfielders: Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Salima Tete (c), Neha, Deepika Soreng
Forwards: Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung
— IANS
Reader Comments
Unbeaten in the Nations Cup—that's brilliant! Our women's hockey is really on the rise. But I wish the Hockey India website had better coverage of their matches. These girls deserve more media attention. The squad depth looks good now with two solid keepers in Savita and Bichu. 🇮🇳
Great to see India women's hockey getting stronger! The midfield with Salima and Nikki looks really experienced. But I do hope the ground staff in Amstelveen keep the pitches in good shape—sometimes European weather can be unpredictable in August. Best of luck from a fan in Australia! 🏏🏑
The forward line has some exciting names—Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, and Beauty Dungdung! The Nations Cup win was no fluke. But I think the selectors could have included one more experienced defender. Shilpi Dabas is good but we might need more cover against England's pace. Still, optimistic overall. 👏
All the best to Salima and the team! The squad has a nice balance—youngsters like Sakshi Rana and seasoned players like Savita. But I'm a bit concerned about the goalkeeper backup. Bichu Devi is talented but hasn't played many big matches. Hope the management has a plan if Savita gets injured. Still, can't wait for the tournament! 🙌
So proud of our women's hockey team! The way they played in New Zealand was inspiring. Salima Tete has been
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