Hockey India on Monday announced a 26-member Indian women’s hockey team for the upcoming tour of Australia, scheduled from April 26 to May 4 at the Perth Hockey Stadium. The tour comprises five matches — the first two against Australia A, followed by three matches against the senior Australian team.
The squad will be led by dynamic midfielder Salima Tete, with seasoned forward Navneet Kaur serving as vice-captain. This series marks a crucial preparatory step for the team ahead of the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25, set to begin in June.
Goalkeeping duties will be shared between veteran Savita and promising youngster Bichu Devi Kharibam, forming a solid last line of defence.
The defensive line-up includes a blend of experience and emerging talent: Jyoti Singh, Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Sujata Kujur, Suman Devi Thoudam, Jyoti, Ajmina Kujur, and Sakshi Rana.
In midfield, Salima will anchor the unit with support from Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, Mahima Tete, Pooja Yadav, and Lalremsiami, providing depth, creativity, and control.
The forward line is sharp and aggressive, featuring Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Mumtaz Khan, Baljeet Kaur, Deepika Soreng, and Beauty Dungdung.
Notably, five players — Jyoti Singh, Sujata Kujur, Ajmina Kujur, Pooja Yadav, and Mahima Tete — have earned their maiden call-ups to the senior national side and are poised to make their international debuts.
Standby players include Bansari Solanki (goalkeeper), Anjana Dundung and Lalthantluangi (defenders), Sakshi Shukla and Khaidem Shileima Chanu (midfielders), and Dipi Monika Toppo and Sonam (forwards).
Speaking about the squad selection, Harendra Singh, Chief Coach of the Indian Women’s Team, said:
“This tour to Australia is a valuable opportunity to test our skills and strategies against top-tier opponents. We’ve picked a balanced squad that blends experience with youthful energy. It’s encouraging to see young players breaking into the senior team through consistent performances.”
He added, “The team has undergone rigorous training at the national camp in Bengaluru and is mentally and physically in good shape. Matches against Australia A and the Hockey roos will help us fine-tune our game before the FIH Pro League’s European leg. We are working on improving fitness, decision-making, and mental resilience to stay composed under pressure. Our goal is to build on the fighting spirit displayed during recent Pro League fixtures.”
(With IANS inputs)
