Savita Punia Becomes India’s Most-Capped Women’s Hockey Player

India’s goalkeeper Savita Punia became the most-capped player in the history of Indian women’s hockey on 21 September 2026. She surpassed the previous record of 320 senior international appearances held by former India striker Vandana Katariya during India’s Pool B match against Indonesia at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Caps in International Hockey

A cap is an appearance for a national team in an official international match. In field hockey, senior international caps are counted across recognised matches for the national side, including tournaments such as the Asian Games and the FIH Hockey Pro League.

Savita Punia’s Career Milestones

Savita Punia made her senior international debut in 2009. She equalled Vandana Katariya’s record of 320 caps on 20 September 2026 in India’s 19-0 win over Uzbekistan in the Asian Games opener. She reached her 300th international cap in February 2025 during an FIH Hockey Pro League match against the Netherlands.

Vandana Katariya and Record Context

Vandana Katariya retired in April 2025 with 320 caps and 158 goals. She played as a striker for India and held the record for the most senior international appearances in Indian women’s hockey before Savita Punia surpassed it.

Recognition and Awards

Hockey India announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh for Savita Punia after she became the most-capped Indian women’s hockey player. She received the Padma Shri in 2026, which is one of India’s highest civilian awards.

Important Facts for Exams

• Savita Punia is a goalkeeper and is known by the nickname “The Wall of India”.
• She made her senior international debut in 2009.
• The Asian Games 2026 were held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
• Vandana Katariya retired in April 2025 with 320 caps and 158 goals.

India’s women’s hockey team counts senior international appearances as caps in official matches. The Padma Shri is one of India’s four Padma awards, along with Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.