The Indian Women’s Hockey Team is all set to begin its campaign at the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2025-26 in Auckland, New Zealand, on 15th June.
The team will be heading to the tournament with a clear objective of securing promotion back to next year’s FIH Women’s Hockey Pro League.
Captained by Salima Tete, India will open their Pool A campaign against the United States on June 15 before facing Japan on June 16 and Uruguay on June 18. The tournament brings together eight nations, with the winner promoted to the prestigious FIH Hockey Pro League.
Pool B includes hosts New Zealand, Chile, Korea and France.
India will look to make a strong start in the pool stage and build momentum heading into the knockout rounds, scheduled for 20 and 21 June.
The tournament also offers valuable international exposure against quality opposition as the Indian team continues its preparations for major events ahead, including the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup and Asian Games 2026.
Notably, India head into the tournament on the back of a competitive four-match tour of Australia, where they showcased impressive character against one of the world’s strongest teams on their home turf.
After suffering a narrow defeat in the opening encounter, the Indian side bounced back emphatically to register victories in the next two matches before Australia edged the final game, resulting in the friendly series ending in a 2-2 draw.
The tour offered several encouraging signs for the Indian camp, with the team demonstrating resilience under pressure, tactical discipline across all phases of play and a potent attacking threat.
The performances reinforced the progress made by the squad in recent months and provided valuable momentum heading into the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup, the first major assignment of an important international season away from home.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team’s Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne expressed confidence in the squad’s preparation and mindset.
“The Australia tour was an excellent preparation for us. We were pleased with the way the players responded to challenges, adapted to different situations and competed against a top-quality side. The results gave the group confidence, but more importantly, showed that we are moving in the right direction as a team. Now our complete focus is on the Nations Cup and making the most of this opportunity,” he said.
Marijne further stressed the importance of maintaining composure in a tournament where every game carries significance. “In tournaments like these, small moments often make the biggest difference. We need to remain disciplined, stay united as a team and make the most of our opportunities.
The objective is not only to achieve good results but also to continue building a strong foundation for the future. We know the expectations are high, and the players are motivated to give their best for the country.”
India’s Squad for FIH Women’s Nations Cup
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam
Defenders: Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary, Lalthantluangi, Shilpi Dabas, Jyoti, Nikki Pradhan
Midfielders: Salima Tete (c), Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Deepika Soreng, Sonam, Lalremsiami
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Ishika, Annu
India’s Schedule for the 2026 FIH Women’s Nations Cup (All Timings in IST)
June 15: India vs United States – 4:15 AM
June 16: India vs Japan – 6:30 AM
June 18: India vs Uruguay – 4:15 AM
Where to Watch?
All FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2025-26 matches will be streamed live on Watch.Hockey website for free.
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