Is the Indian Women's Hockey Team Ready for the Asia Cup in China?
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Synopsis
The Indian women's hockey team embarks on a crucial journey to the Women's Asia Cup 2025 in China, led by captain Salima Tete. With aspirations to qualify for the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup 2026, the team faces tough competition ahead. Can they secure their victory and represent India on the world stage?
Key Takeaways
- Indian women's hockey team departs for Women's Asia Cup 2025
- Led by captain Salima Tete, aiming for World Cup qualification
- Team includes a balance of youth and experience
- India placed in Pool B with matches against Thailand, Japan, and Singapore
- Previous Asia Cup victories in 2004 and 2017
Bengaluru, Aug 30 (NationPress) The Indian women's hockey team departed for Hangzhou, China on Saturday, preparing for the Women's Asia Cup 2025. Led by captain Salima Tete, the 20-member squad aims to clinch victory in the tournament to secure India's place in the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup 2026 next year.
Discussing the upcoming challenge, Salima remarked, "This tournament is an excellent opportunity for us to secure our spot in the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup next year, and we are prioritizing that. Our primary goal right now is to top our Pool and advance to the Super Fours. From there, we will approach each game individually and strive for the championship trophy."
The team is a balanced mix of youth and experience, with goalkeepers Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam providing solid options in the goal.
The defense will be led by seasoned players such as Nikki Pradhan and Udita, with support from younger talents like Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary.
In the midfield, the team showcases strong players such as Neha, captain Salima Tete, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, ensuring both creativity and stability. The forward line is a blend of experienced athletes and rising stars - Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal.
India has been placed in Pool B and will compete against Japan, Thailand, and Singapore during the group stage. Their campaign kicks off against Thailand on September 5, followed by a match with Japan on September 6, and concluding with their final pool-stage game against Singapore on September 8.
The Indian women's team has previously won the Women's Asia Cup twice, first in 2004 and again in 2017. In the last edition of the tournament, India secured third place.
Point of View
I believe the Indian women's hockey team is on the brink of achieving remarkable success. Their journey is not just about winning; it's about showcasing their resilience and determination on an international platform. The support from fans and stakeholders is crucial as they aim for glory in the Women's Asia Cup and beyond. NationPress stands firmly behind our athletes.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When does India start their campaign in the Women's Asia Cup?
India's campaign begins on September 5 against Thailand.
Who is the captain of the Indian women's hockey team?
The captain of the Indian women's hockey team is Salima Tete.
How many times has India won the Women's Asia Cup?
India has won the Women's Asia Cup twice, in 2004 and 2017.
What is at stake in the Women's Asia Cup for India?
Winning the Women's Asia Cup would secure India's spot in the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup 2026.
Who are some key players in the Indian women's team?
Key players include Salima Tete, Navneet Kaur, and Nikki Pradhan, among others.
