Who is in the 24-member team for the European leg of the FIH Pro League?

New Delhi, May 12 (NationPress) Hockey India has announced the 24-member Indian women’s hockey team that will participate in the European segment of the FIH Pro League 2024-25, taking place in London, Antwerp, and Berlin from June 14 to 29.

The Indian squad will face each of the four competing nations - Australia, Argentina, Belgium, and China - in two matches, kicking off their journey with a match against Australia on June 14.

Leading the team is the dynamic midfielder Salima Tete as captain, supported by experienced forward Navneet Kaur as vice-captain. The goalkeepers include Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam. The defensive lineup features Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, Jyoti Singh, Ishika Chaudhary, and Jyoti Chhatri.

The midfield comprises Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Sujata Kujur, Manisha Chauhan, and Neha, while the attacking midfielders are Salima Tete, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Mahima Tete. The forwards include Deepika, Navneet Kaur, Deepika Soreng, Baljeet Kaur, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Beauty Dungdung, and Sakshi Rana.

On standby are goalkeeper Bansari Solanki and defender Ajmina Kujur.

India's performance in the Bhubaneswar leg of the league showcased both resilience and learning experiences. The team secured two wins and two draws, finishing with nine points and placing sixth overall. They started strong with a 3-2 victory against England, followed by a draw, but faced three setbacks – two losses to Spain and one to Germany. A subsequent 1-0 victory over Germany helped regain their momentum.

Closing matches against the World No. 1 Netherlands highlighted their determination and development. Despite a 2-4 loss in the first game, India earned 13 penalty corners, applying significant pressure on the Dutch team. In the final encounter, they managed to secure a 2-2 draw and clinched a bonus point via a shootout win, ending their home campaign on a positive note.

Commenting on the squad selection, Indian women’s hockey team chief coach Harendra Singh stated, “We’ve assembled a balanced squad merging experience with youthful talent. The European leg is a pivotal stage of the Pro League, and we anticipate high-stakes matches against some of the top teams worldwide. Each player selected has demonstrated exceptional commitment and readiness during our recent training camps and the Australia tour.”

“Additionally, the Pro League matches in Bhubaneswar illuminated both our strengths and areas needing improvement. We have taken those lessons to heart, and the group is eager to elevate our performance. The European leg will test our mental resilience and tactical discipline. Our aim is to maintain momentum and evolve as a cohesive unit with each match,” he added.