New Delhi, 21st August 2025: Hockey India has announced the 20-member Indian Women’s Hockey Team for the Women’s Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, China, from 5th to 14th September 2025. The tournament carries added significance as the winner will secure direct qualification for the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026, making it a high-stakes competition on the international hockey calendar.
India has been drawn in Pool B, alongside Japan, Thailand, and Singapore. The team will kick off its campaign against Thailand on 5th September, followed by Japan on 6th September, before playing Singapore in their final group-stage match on 8th September.
The squad will be led by Salima Tete, who brings both leadership and experience to the midfield. The goalkeeping responsibilities will be handled by Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam, while the defence will see stalwarts like Nikki Pradhan and Udita, supported by youngsters Manisha Chauhan, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, and Ishika Chaudhary.
In midfield, India boasts creativity and stability through Neha, Salima Tete, Lalremsiami, Sharmila Devi, Sunelita Toppo, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke. The forward line features a strong mix of experience and youth, including Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal.
Chief Coach Harendra Singh expressed confidence in the squad, stating, “We have tried to strike the right balance between experienced campaigners and young talent. Our focus will be on playing aggressive and disciplined hockey, and we believe this group has the capability to challenge the best in Asia.”
He further emphasized the importance of the tournament: “The Women’s Asia Cup is not only prestigious but also a direct qualifying event for the World Cup. Every match will test our tactical discipline and composure, but the team is highly motivated to make India proud.”
India’s Squad for Women’s Asia Cup 2025
Goalkeepers: Bansari Solanki, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Manisha Chauhan, Udita, Jyoti, Suman Devi Thoudam, Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary
Midfielders: Neha, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Salima Tete (Captain), Sharmila Devi, Lalremsiami, Sunelita Toppo
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal, Beauty Dungdung, Mumtaz Khan, Deepika, Sangita Kumari
