Hockey India has announced the 20 players who will travel to Hangzhou, China, for the Women’s Asia Cup (September 5–14), a tournament that doubles up as a qualifying event for the 2026 World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
The big miss is Savita Punia, India’s long-time goalkeeper and captain, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury. Midfielder Sushila Chanu is also unavailable due to a knee problem, leaving the team without two of its most experienced campaigners.
In their absence, Salima Tete, the 23-year-old midfielder, will wear the captain’s armband. Tete has been a regular in the Indian lineup for the last few years, but this marks her first stint leading the national side at a major international tournament.
India has been slotted into Pool B with Japan, Thailand, and Singapore. Their campaign begins against Thailand on September 5, followed by Japan the next day, before wrapping up the pool round with Singapore on September 8.
Pool A features hosts and defending champions China, along with Korea, Malaysia, and Chinese Taipei. While India will be favoured to progress from their group, the knockout stages are likely to bring sterner challenges from China and Japan.
With the winner being guaranteed a World Cup spot, the stakes could not be higher. After a disappointing Pro League season that ended in relegation, India views the Asia Cup as a chance to reset their campaign and reassert itself in Asia.
Squad Breakdown
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Goalkeepers: With Punia absent, the responsibility falls on Bichu Devi Kharibam and Bansari Solanki. For Bichu, often waiting in Savita’s shadow, this is a major opportunity.
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Defenders: Veterans Nikki Pradhan and Udita will lead a young backline featuring Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary.
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Midfielders: Skipper Salima Tete anchors the centre, supported by Neha, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and youngster Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke.
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Forwards: The strike line is headed by Navneet Kaur, with Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, and Rutaja Pisal adding pace and depth.
Head coach Harendra Singh said the team had been chosen to balance experience with young blood. “We’ve built a squad that mixes senior players with exciting new talent. The Asia Cup is not only about the title; it’s about earning a World Cup ticket. Every game will test our preparation.”
On the absence of Savita and Chanu, he said, “We’ll miss their experience, but this is also a chance for others to take responsibility. The group is eager and motivated.”
India’s Asia Cup Record
India has lifted the Asia Cup trophy twice, in 2004 in Delhi and 2017 in Kakamigahara, Japan. Since then, China and Japan have largely dictated the pace in the region.
This edition in Hangzhou gives India not only the chance to chase a third title but also to secure its spot in the 2026 World Cup early. For Tete, it is also an early test of leadership as she guides a squad blending seasoned internationals with newcomers.
With the countdown on, India’s performance in Hangzhou will be closely watched, not just for medals, but for the message it sends about the team’s future direction.
India’s Blue Tigress are also aiming for a historic qualification. Read more about it here.
Yash Desai is a renowned journalist with over 10+ years of experience covering sports around the world. He began his career as a News Reporter in Delhi, India, and got an opportunity to cover several World events, including the Olympics, Paralympics, and World Games. He often felt that women’s sports are sidelined and given step-motherly treatment by the mainstream media. To bridge this gap and to build an equal playing field, Yash co-founded FemaleInSports and is currently working as a Lead Editor here.
