India Announce 20-Member Squad for FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup 2026, Salima Tete to Captain

Hockey India on Friday announced the 20-member Indian women's squad for the FIH Hockey Women's World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026, with midfielder Salima Tete set to captain the team in the prestigious tournament scheduled from August 15 to 30.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands, with the Indian squad currently undergoing preparations at the national coaching camp in Bengaluru under Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne.

The squad features a balanced blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents who impressed during recent international assignments, including India's unbeaten title-winning campaign at the FIH Nations Cup in New Zealand last month.

Marijne Confident of India's Chances

Announcing the squad, Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed confidence in the team's preparation ahead of the World Cup.

"We have chosen a well-balanced group of players who are ready for the big challenges we will face this summer. The team has worked hard in the lead-up to the tournament and we are confident in this group's abilities. We look forward to competing against the best teams in the world and showcasing our hockey on the biggest stage," Marijne said.

Experienced Core and Young Talent

Veteran goalkeeper Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam have been entrusted with goalkeeping duties.

The defensive unit includes Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti and Shilpi Dabas.

Captain Salima Tete will marshal the midfield alongside Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha and Deepika Soreng.

India's attacking line-up comprises Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung.

India Drawn in Pool D

India have been placed in Pool D alongside China, England and South Africa. All of the team's group-stage fixtures will be played at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands.

• August 16: India vs China
• August 18: India vs South Africa
• August 20: India vs England

India's Squad for FIH Hockey Women's World Cup 2026

Category	Players
Goalkeepers	Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders	Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas
Midfielders	Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Salima Tete (Captain), Neha, Deepika Soreng
Forwards	Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung

About Hockey India

Hockey India is the national governing body for field hockey in India and is responsible for the administration, promotion and development of the sport across the country, including the management of the men's and women's national teams.

 

(Inputs from Press Release)