The Indian women's hockey team has been placed in Pool B along with Japan, Thailand and Singapore. India will kick-start their Asia Cup campaign against Thailand on September 5
Representational Image (Pic: File Pic)
Ahead of the Asia Cup, Salima Tete was retained as the captain of the Indian women's hockey team.
The continental tournament is set to be held in Hangzhou from September 5 to 14.
The tournament will be crucial for India as the winner of the event will directly seal a place in the 2026 FIH Women's Hockey World Cup.
The Indian women's hockey team has been placed in Pool B along with Japan, Thailand and Singapore. India will kick-start their Asia Cup campaign against Thailand on September 5.
After that, they will lock horns against Japan on September 6. India will conclude its pool stage matches by playing the final game against Singapore on September 8.
Speaking about the squad, head coach Harendra Singh said that the players have been training with intensity, and the management has tried to select the team with the right balance.
"We are excited about the squad we have selected for the women's Asia Cup in Hangzhou," said Singh.
"The group has been training with great intensity, and we have tried to strike the right balance between experienced campaigners and young talent," he added.
Revealing the Indian team's approach ahead of the continental tournament, the coach said the side will be aiming to play an aggressive brand of hockey.
"Our focus will be on playing an aggressive and disciplined brand of hockey, and we believe this team has the capability to compete strongly against the best in Asia," revealed the coach.
The squad features a balanced mix of youth and experience, with goalkeepers Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam providing depth under the post.
The defence unit will be marshalled by experienced players such as Nikki Pradhan and Udita, supported by youngsters Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary.
Goalkeepers: 1. Bansari Solanki, 2. Bichu Devi Kharibam.
Defenders: 3. Manisha Chauhan, 4. Udita, 5. Jyoti, 6. Suman Devi Thoudam, 7. Nikki Pradhan, 8. Ishika Chaudhary.
Midfielders: 9. Neha, 10. Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, 11. Salima Tete, 12. Sharmila Devi, 13. Lalremsiami, 14. Sunelita Toppo.
Forwards: 15. Navneet Kaur, 16. Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, 17. Beauty Dungdung, 18. Mumtaz Khan, 19. Deepika, 20. Sangita Kumari.
(With PTI Inputs)
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