India Retain Core of Nations Cup-Winning Women's Hockey Squad for Asian Games

India have largely retained the core of the squad that recently regained promotion to the FIH Pro League, placing their faith in a tried-and-tested combination for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan.

The 20-member women's hockey squad , announced on Friday, will once again be led by Salima Tete , who captained the side to the FIH Nations Cup title in New Zealand last month . That triumph ensured India's immediate return to the Pro League after spending a season in the relegated zone.

With the 20th Asian Games scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya from September 19 to October 4 , the tournament carries added significance as the gold medal winners will secure direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics .

The most notable changes have come in the forward line, where Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung have replaced Sonam and Annu . The team management has otherwise opted to maintain continuity following a successful run in recent months.

Veteran goalkeeper Savita , who was recently honoured with the Padma Shri , has been included alongside Bichu Devi Kharibam . The defensive unit features experienced campaigners Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Jyoti , while youngsters Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas retain their places after impressing on their senior debut during the Nations Cup.

In midfield, Salima will marshal a unit that includes Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha, and Deepika Soreng. The attack will be spearheaded by Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, and Beauty Dungdung.

Head coach Sjoerd Marijne said the squad has a healthy mix of youth and experience and expressed confidence that the players possess the form and fitness required to meet the challenge in Japan.