India Names Women’s Hockey Squad for Nations Cup

India announced a 20-member women’s hockey squad on 2 June 2026 for the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup New Zealand 2025-26. The tournament is scheduled from 15 to 21 June in Auckland, New Zealand, and India is placed in Pool A with Japan, the United States, and Uruguay.

Squad Composition

The squad includes two goalkeepers, Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam. Salima Tete continues as captain of the Indian team for the tournament. Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas received their first senior call-ups after the team’s tour of Australia.

Midfield and Forward Line

The midfield unit includes Salima Tete, Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, and Deepika Soreng. The forward line includes Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Annu, Ishika, Lalremsiami, and Sonam.

Preparatory Tour and Tournament Format

India completed a four-match friendly series in Perth during its preparatory tour of Australia. The team held Australia to a 2-2 draw in one of the matches. The FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup is an international women’s field hockey tournament organised by the International Hockey Federation.

Important Facts for Exams

• Field hockey is governed globally by the International Hockey Federation, which is known by the French acronym FIH.
• The FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup is a women’s international field hockey competition.
• Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand and a major venue for international sports events.
• Salima Tete has been a regular name in India’s senior women’s hockey midfield and captaincy roles.

World Cup and Asian Games Pathway

The squad was selected ahead of a tournament linked to India’s international women’s hockey calendar. The team’s recent Australia tour included four friendly matches in Perth.