The Indian women's hockey team is set to launch its campaign at the FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup New Zealand 2025-26 in Auckland from 15 June 2025, with promotion to the FIH Hockey Pro League as the primary objective. Led by captain Salima Tete, the squad enters the eight-nation tournament as one of the stronger contenders in Pool A.

Pool Stage Fixtures and Format

India's pool stage schedule opens against the United States on 15 June at 4:15 AM IST, followed by a clash with Japan on 16 June at 6:30 AM IST, and a final group game against Uruguay on 18 June at 4:15 AM IST. The knockout rounds are scheduled for 20 and 21 June. Pool B features hosts New Zealand, Chile, Korea, and France. The tournament winner earns direct promotion to the FIH Hockey Pro League.

Australia Tour Provided Crucial Momentum

India arrives in Auckland on the back of a competitive four-match tour of Australia, where the team finished with a 2-2 series draw. After a narrow defeat in the opening match, the side bounced back to win the next two games before Australia claimed the final fixture. The series highlighted India's resilience under pressure, tactical discipline, and a sharper attacking presence — qualities that coaching staff believe will be decisive in Auckland.

What the Coach Said

Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed confidence ahead of the tournament. 'The Australia tour was an excellent preparation for us. We were pleased with the way the players responded to challenges, adapted to different situations and competed against a top-quality side. The results gave the group confidence, but more importantly showed that we are moving in the right direction as a team. Now our complete focus is on the Nations Cup and making the most of this opportunity,' he said.

Marijne also stressed composure as a key differentiator. 'In tournaments like these, small moments often make the biggest difference. We need to remain disciplined, stay united as a team and make the most of our opportunities. The objective is not only to achieve good results but also to continue building a strong foundation for the future,' he added.

Hockey India's Message to the Squad

Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey backed the team ahead of the tournament. 'Earning promotion to the FIH Hockey Pro League is an important objective, but equally important is continuing to build a team capable of consistently competing with the world's best,' he said. Secretary general Bhola Nath Singh echoed the sentiment, calling the Nations Cup 'a crucial tournament in the journey of our women's team' as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup and Asian Games 2026.

Bigger Picture: Road to 2026

The Nations Cup carries significance beyond the immediate prize of Pro League promotion. For a squad building toward the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup and Asian Games 2026, matches against the United States, Japan, and Uruguay offer high-pressure, high-quality exposure in tournament conditions. Notably, the Australia series — against one of the world's top-ranked sides — already demonstrated that India can compete consistently at the elite level. A strong showing in Auckland would further consolidate that upward trajectory.