Savita Punia took a big decision: withdrew from the World Cup Qualifier due to family reasons, 20-member Indian women’s hockey team announced under the captaincy of Salima Tete.

By Samira Vishwas On Mar 1, 2026

Hyderabad: Veteran goalkeeper and former captain Savita Punia has withdrawn her name from the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup 2026 qualifiers due to personal reasons. Hockey India on Sunday announced a 20-member squad under the captaincy of midfielder Salima Tete. The tournament will be played in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14, where eight teams including India will compete for three qualification spots for the World Cup to be held in Belgium-Netherlands in August. India have been placed in Pool B, which includes Scotland, Uruguay and Wales. Whereas in Pool A there are England, Korea, Italy and Austria. According to sources, Savita did not attend the national camp before the tournament.

A source said, “He had withdrawn his name due to family reasons, hence his name was not considered in the team selection.” Now Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam will take charge of goalkeeping in the team. The defense includes Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Nikki Pradhan, Manisha Chauhan, Udita and Ishika Chaudhary. Neha, Sunita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Vaishnavi Vittal Phalke, Rutja Dadaso Pisal and Deepika Soreng will play the responsibility of midfield along with captain Salima Tete. The forward line will be Navneet Kaur, Ishika, Lalremsiami, Beauty Dungdung, Baljeet Kaur and Annu.

Head coach Sjoerd Marin said, “We are very excited for this first tournament. We are focusing on fitness, strategy and the role of each player. We will be fully prepared by playing two practice matches in Hyderabad.”

India’s program

– March 8: India vs Uruguay

– March 9: India vs Scotland

– March 11: India vs Wales

This qualifier is a golden opportunity for the Indian women’s hockey team to make it to the World Cup 2026. The mix of young and experienced players under the leadership of Salima Tete will strengthen the team. Now all eyes are on this important tournament to be held in Hyderabad.