Salima Tete Set to Captain India in Women's Hockey World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad
Synopsis
The Indian Women's Hockey Team, led by Salima Tete, gears up for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Hyderabad, where they will compete against several nations for a chance to qualify for the prestigious tournament in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Key Takeaways
Salima Tete leads a talented squad for the qualifiers.
The tournament runs from March 8-14 in Hyderabad .
India's first match is against Uruguay .
There are two pools with eight teams competing.
The team aims for a spot in the World Cup in Belgium & Netherlands .
Hyderabad, March 1 (NationPress) - Hockey India has officially unveiled a 20-member squad for the Indian Women’s Hockey Team ahead of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, taking place in Hyderabad, Telangana, from March 8 to 14.
Competing for three coveted qualification spots at the FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium & Netherlands this August, the tournament will see host nation India alongside England, Scotland, Korea, Italy, Uruguay, Wales, and Austria.
The teams are categorized into two pools: Pool A consists of England, Korea, Italy, and Austria, while Pool B features India, Scotland, Uruguay, and Wales.
Experienced midfielder Salima Tete will lead the team as captain, bringing essential leadership to the squad. The goalkeeping duties will be shared by Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam.
The defensive lineup includes Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan, Manisha Chauhan, Udita, and Ishika Chaudhary. In the midfield, besides captain Tete, the roster includes Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, and Deepika Soreng.
On the offensive front, the team showcases talent and scoring ability with players like Navneet Kaur, Ishika, Lalremsiami, Beauty Dungdung, Baljeet Kaur, and Annu taking charge of goalscoring.
Newly appointed Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament, stating, “We are eagerly awaiting our first tournament together. We have focused on fitness and tactics so that every member understands their roles within the team. We plan to conduct two practice matches in Hyderabad to ensure we are fully prepared for the upcoming challenges.”
India will kick off their campaign against Uruguay on March 8, followed by matches against Scotland and Wales on March 9 and March 11, respectively.
The squad includes: Goalkeepers: Bansari Solanki, Bichu Devi Kharibam.
Defenders: Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan, Manisha Chauhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary.
Midfielders: Neha, Salima Tete, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Deepika Soreng.
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Ishika, Lalremsiami, Beauty Dungdung, Baljeet Kaur, Annu.
Point of View
The Indian Women's Hockey Team, under the leadership of Salima Tete, embodies a blend of experience and youthful talent. The strategic choices made by Coach Sjoerd Marijne will be crucial as they aim to secure their spot in the World Cup. The anticipation surrounding their performance reflects the growing prominence of women's sports in India.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Women's Hockey World Cup Qualifiers take place?
The qualifiers will be held from March 8 to 14 in Hyderabad, Telangana.
Who is the captain of the Indian Women's Hockey Team?
Salima Tete is the captain of the Indian Women's Hockey Team.
How many teams are competing in the qualifiers?
Eight teams are competing for three qualification spots at the World Cup.
What are the pools for the tournament?
Pool A consists of England, Korea, Italy, and Austria, while Pool B features India, Scotland, Uruguay, and Wales.
Who is the Chief Coach of the Indian Women's Hockey Team?
Sjoerd Marijne is the newly appointed Chief Coach.
