Team Departure and Objective
On August 30, 2025, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team officially left for Hangzhou, China, to compete in the Women’s Asia Cup 2025 .
Led by Captain Salima Tete, the squad is determined to win the title, as victory would secure an automatic qualification for the 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup .
India has been drawn into Pool B, alongside Japan, Thailand, and Singapore .The 20-member squad features a blend of experienced internationals and rising talent:Goalkeepers: Bansari Solanki, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, Ishika Chaudhary
Midfielders: Salima Tete (Captain), Neha, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, Vaishnavi Vitthal PhalkeForwards: Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal
Mumtaz Khan, from Lucknow, is the only player from Uttar Pradesh in the squad, expressing her eagerness to contribute to India’s World Cup qualification push .Salima Tete continues her role as captain, entrusted with leading a spirited and balanced team into the tournament .
The Women’s Asia Cup is highly significant—not just for continental glory, but also as a direct route to the 2026 World Cup .
Chief Coach Harendra Singh emphasized the team’s preparation, noting their training intensity and the balance between experienced campaigners and young talent. The strategy: aggressive yet disciplined hockey
