NEW DELHI, April 14: Hockey India on Monday unveiled a 26-member Indian women’s hockey team for the upcoming tour of Australia, slated to take place from April 26 to May 4 at the Perth Hockey Stadium. The series, comprising five matches — two against Australia A and three against the senior Australian team — is seen as a critical preparatory step ahead of the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25, beginning in June.
The squad will be captained by dynamic midfielder Salima Tete, while experienced forward Navneet Kaur has been named vice-captain. The team features a strong representation with several talented players from Manipur state included in key positions.
Veteran goalkeeper Savita and promising youngster Bichu Devi Kharibam will share responsibilities between the posts, ensuring a dependable last line of defence.
The defensive line-up showcases both experience and fresh energy with the inclusion of Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Suman Devi Thoudam along with Jyoti Singh, Ishika Chaudhary, Sujata Kujur, Jyoti, Ajmina Kujur, and Sakshi Rana.
The midfield will be spearheaded by captain Salima Tete, joined by a mix of established and emerging players such as Neha, Sharmila Devi, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, Mahima Tete, Pooja Yadav, and Lalremsiami. Notably, Mahima Tete and Pooja Yadav are among five players who have earned their maiden call-ups to the senior team.
In the forward line, Navneet Kaur leads an aggressive attack alongside Deepika, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Mumtaz Khan, Baljeet Kaur, Deepika Soreng, and Beauty Dungdung.
Importantly, five players have earned their first senior national call-up, including Jyoti Singh, Sujata Kujur, Ajmina Kujur, Pooja Yadav, and Mahima Tete — a major milestone in their careers.
The list of standby players includes Bansari Solanki (goalkeeper), Anjana Dundung and Lalthantluangi (defenders), Sakshi Shukla and Khaidem Shileima Chanu (midfielders), and Dipi Monika Toppo and Sonam (forwards).
Speaking on the squad selection, Harendra Singh, Chief Coach of the Indian Women’s Team, stated, “This tour to Australia is a valuable opportunity to test our skills and strategies against top-tier opponents. We’ve picked a balanced squad that blends experience with youthful energy. It’s encouraging to see young players breaking into the senior team through consistent performances.”
He further added, “The team has undergone rigorous training at the national camp in Bengaluru and is mentally and physically in good shape. Matches against Australia A and the Hockeyroos will help us fine-tune our game before the FIH Pro League’s European leg. We are working on improving fitness, decision-making, and mental resilience to stay composed under pressure. Our goal is to build on the fighting spirit displayed during recent Pro League fixtures.”
