India Women Hockey Squad for Asian Games 2026 Announced: Salima Tete Named Captain; Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung Included
Hockey India today confirmed the 20-member Indian Women's Hockey Team for the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Led by captain Salima Tete, the squad aims to secure a gold medal and a direct qualification spot for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team features a strong mix of experienced players like Padma Shri recipient Savita Punia and promising.
NEW DELHI: India's quest for Asian Games glory and a direct berth to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics received a significant boost today, July 10, 2026, as Hockey India officially unveiled the 20-member Indian Women's Hockey Team set to compete in the prestigious continental event. Midfielder Salima Tete will lead the charge as captain, bringing her recent experience of guiding the team to an FIH Nations Cup triumph. The 20th Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026. India Clinches FIH Nations Cup 2025-26 Title, Returns to Women's Hockey Pro League.
India Women Name Squad for Asian Games 2026
Squad Unveiled with Strategic Mix
The announced squad showcases a balanced blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, a strategy lauded by Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne. Marijne expressed confidence in the team's readiness and form, particularly following their recent success in the FIH Nations Cup. The team includes only two changes from the FIH Nations Cup-winning side, with Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung stepping in for Sonam and Annu, bolstering the forward line.
Veteran goalkeeper Savita, a recent recipient of the Padma Shri award, will anchor the defence alongside Bichu Devi Kharibam. The defensive unit features Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary, Jyoti, and the rising stars Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas, who impressed during their senior debuts in the FIH Nations Cup.
Midfield and Forward Powerhouses
The midfield, orchestrated by Captain Salima Tete, includes experienced players like Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha, and Deepika Soreng, providing a strong core for ball control and attacking build-up. The forward line boasts prolific scorers such as Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, and Beauty Dungdung, tasked with converting opportunities into goals. Sreejesh Questions Investment in Foreign Coach After India’s Dismal FIH Hockey Pro League 2025–26 Season.
Indian Women's Hockey Team for Asian Games 2026
| Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam |
| Defenders | Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas |
| Midfielders | Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Salima Tete (C), Neha, Deepika Soreng |
| Forwards | Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung |
Tournament Details and Broadcast
The 20th Asian Games will be hosted across Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, Japan. While the full competition schedule for women's hockey is yet to be released, India will be looking to start strong in their bid for the gold medal. Specific match dates, timings, and broadcasting partners for the women's hockey tournament in India, the UK, USA, and Australia will be announced closer to the event. Fans are advised to keep an eye on official announcements from the Asian Games organizers and regional broadcasters for comprehensive coverage details.
This squad selection underlines India's strong ambition to dominate continental hockey and secure its place at the highest level of international competition. With a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, the Indian Women's Hockey Team is poised for a challenging yet promising campaign in Aichi-Nagoya.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 10, 2026 02:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).