Women’s Hockey World Cup team announced; midfielder Salima Tete to lead

 
India announced its 20-member squad for the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 today. Midfielder Salima Tete will lead the Indian side at the prestigious tournament to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15 to 30. Goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam have retained their places in the squad. The defensive unit comprises Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, and Shilpi Dabas. The midfield will be led by captain Salima Tete alongside Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha and Deepika Soreng. India’s forward line features Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, and Beauty Dungdung. India have been drawn in Pool D alongside China, England and South Africa. The team will begin its campaign against China on August 16 at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, before taking on South Africa on August 18 and England on August 20.