New Delhi: Midfielder Salima Tete will captain India at the upcoming FIH Women’s Nations Cup 2025–26, scheduled to be held in Auckland, New Zealand from June 15 to 21. The tournament is seen as a crucial preparatory event for the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands, as well as the Asia Cup in Nagoya, Japan.
India’s head coach Sjoerd Marijne described the Nations Cup as an important opportunity to test combinations and finalize options ahead of major global competitions. He said the team has been built with a balanced mix of experience and youth, capable of delivering strong performances under pressure.
India recently returned from a four-match friendly series against Australia in Perth, where they managed to draw the series 2–2, gaining valuable match practice against a top-ranked side.
In the Nations Cup, India have been placed in Pool A alongside Japan, the United States, and Uruguay. Pool B consists of hosts New Zealand, Chile, South Korea, and France. India will begin their campaign against the United States on June 15, followed by a clash with Japan on June 16, and conclude their pool stage against Uruguay on June 18. The semifinals will be played on June 20, while the final is scheduled for June 21.
India’s strength lies in a solid midfield and an aggressive forward line. Midfielder Deepika Soreng impressed during the Australia tour and is expected to play a key role alongside Salima Tete, Neha, Sunelita Toppo, and Sakshi Rana.
The forward line features experienced and fast-attacking options such as Navneet Kaur, Deepika Sehrawat, Rituja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika, and Anu, providing India with strong finishing power.
In defence, players like Sushila Chanu, Jyoti, and Nikki Pradhan will anchor the backline, while experienced goalkeeper Savita and young keeper Bichchu Devi Kharibam offer reliability between the posts.
India’s 20-member squad for FIH Women’s Nations Cup 2025–26:
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichchu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Sushila Chanu, Ishika Chaudhary, Lalthatluangi, Shilpi Dabas, Jyoti, Nikki Pradhan
Midfielders: Salima Tete (C), Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Deepika Soreng, Sonam, Lalremsiami
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Deepika Sehrawat, Rituja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika, Anu
Coach Marijne expressed confidence in the squad, stating that senior players bring experience in high-pressure matches, while younger players will gain valuable exposure at the international level through this tournament.
India will aim to use the Nations Cup as a stepping stone toward stronger performances in upcoming global competitions.
