India's Women's Hockey Team Announced for FIH Pro League 2024-25

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Source: Hockey India

Salima Tete to Lead; Navneet Kaur Named Vice-Captain

Hockey India has officially announced the 24-member Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the Bhubaneswar leg of the prestigious FIH Pro League 2024-25. The tournament is set to take place at the iconic Kalinga Hockey Stadium from 15th to 25th February, where India will compete against top teams like England, the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, playing each team twice. The Indian squad will commence their campaign with a crucial match against England on 15th February.

Squad Composition

The Indian team comprises a balanced mix of experienced players and young talents across all positions:

Goalkeepers:

  • Savita

  • Bichu Devi Kharibam

Defenders:

  • Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam

  • Nikki Pradhan

  • Udita

  • Jyoti

  • Ishika Chaudhary

  • Jyoti Chhatri

Midfielders:

  • Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke

  • Neha

  • Manisha Chauhan

  • Salima Tete (Captain)

  • Sunelita Toppo

  • Lalremsiami

  • Baljeet Kaur

  • Sharmila Devi

Forwards:

  • Navneet Kaur (Vice-Captain)

  • Mumtaz Khan

  • Preeti Dubey

  • Rutaja Dadaso Pisal

  • Beauty Dungdung

  • Sangita Kumari

  • Deepika

  • Vandana Katariya

Standby Players:

The standby list includes goalkeeper Banwari Solanki, defenders Akshata Abaso Dhekale and Jyoti Singh, along with forwards Sakshi Rana, Annu, and Sonam. Notably, Sonam has a promising opportunity to make her senior international debut after an outstanding performance in the recently concluded Women’s Hero Hockey India League, where she emerged as the second-highest goal scorer.

Coach’s Perspective

Indian Women’s Hockey Team Chief Coach Harendra Singh expressed confidence in the squad's potential, stating, “We have selected a well-balanced team that integrates experience with youthful energy. The inclusion of young players who have performed exceptionally in domestic tournaments adds depth to our squad. We aim to put forth strong performances against some of the best teams in the world.”

FIH Regulations and Squad Adjustments

As per FIH guidelines, teams playing more than four matches in a single Pro League stage can revise their 24-member squad after the first four matches. However, substitutions must be made from the pre-approved standby list.

India’s Challenge in the FIH Pro League

India will face a stern test in the FIH Pro League, competing against elite teams like the Netherlands and Germany. The tournament will serve as a crucial preparatory ground for the Indian team ahead of major international events, including the upcoming Olympic qualifiers.

With an experienced leadership group and a strong mix of talent across all positions, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team is ready to showcase their skills and resilience on the global stage. Fans can expect an action-packed tournament as India battles for supremacy in the FIH Pro League 2024-25.

Stay tuned for more updates and match highlights from the FIH Pro League 2024-25!

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