The Indian women’s hockey team is undergoing a change in leadership, with Salima Tete being appointed as the new captain, replacing the veteran Savita Punia for the forthcoming FIH Pro League matches in Belgium and England. Additionally, Navneet Kaur has been designated as the deputy captain for the upcoming tour.
Salima Tete expressed her excitement and gratitude for the appointment, emphasizing the significance of the responsibility and the challenges that lie ahead. The team comprises both seasoned and young players, all of whom are preparing to make an impact in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023-2024.
The squad will undergo several changes from the previous line-up, with four replacements in the 24-member team. While Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam will continue to man the goalkeeping duties, significant contributions from established and emerging players are anticipated in the defensive, midfield, and forward lines.
Following her recent honor with the prestigious Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr Award for Player of The Year in the women’s category at the Hockey India Annual Awards, Salima Tete is now entrusted with the leadership mantle. Her experience and capabilities will be pivotal in guiding the team through the forthcoming challenges.
With the Belgium leg of the FIH Pro League scheduled from 22-26 May and the England leg from 1-9 June, the Indian women’s hockey team will confront formidable competition from Argentina, Belgium, Great Britain, and Germany. The team’s current sixth place in the FIH Pro League table, with eight points from as many matches, underscores the tough competition ahead.
The squad’s strategic line-up features a balanced blend of talent and experience, and is committed to making its presence felt in the upcoming leg of the FIH Pro League.
Indian women’s hockey squad:
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, Monika, Jyoti Chhatri, Mahima Chaudhary.
Midfielders: Salima Tete (C), Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Navneet Kaur (VC), Neha, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, Manisha Chauhan, Lalremsiami.
Forwards: Mumtaz Khan, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, Sharmila Devi, Preeti Dubey, Vandana Katariya, Sunelita Toppo, Deepika Soreng.