Salima Tete to captain India's women's hockey team at Asian Games 2026

Hockey India on Friday announced a 20-member Indian women's hockey squad for the 20th Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.

Midfielder Salima Tete will continue to lead the side after captaining India to the FIH Nations Cup title in New Zealand last month. The squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and young players who impressed during the recent tournament.

Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne said the selected group offers a good balance of youth and experience, adding that the players have consistently pushed each other to improve in recent months. 

Nations Cup performers retain places

Veteran goalkeeper Savita, who was recently conferred the Padma Shri, has been named alongside Bichu Devi Kharibam as India's two goalkeepers for the continental event.

The defensive unit includes Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary and Jyoti, while Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas have retained their places after making their senior international debuts during India's unbeaten FIH Nations Cup campaign.

In midfield, captain Salima will be supported by Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha and Deepika Soreng.

The forward line comprises Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur and Beauty Dungdung.

Marijne said the selected players have displayed the required form and fitness over the past few months and expressed confidence in the team's ability to compete for top honours at the Asian Games.

India's squad for the 2026 Asian Games

Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam.

Defenders: Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas.

Midfielders: Salima Tete (captain), Nikki Pradhan, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Neha, Deepika Soreng.

Forwards: Lalremsiami, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Ishika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung.