Hockey India has announced a 31-member Senior Women’s National Coaching Camp, scheduled from April 1 to April 9, 2026, as the Indian women’s team begins its build-up to a demanding international calendar.
The camp comes at a pivotal moment, with multiple marquee tournaments on the horizon, including the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup, the World Cup, and the Asian Games.
The squad enters this phase of preparation on the back of a strong performance at the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad, where India secured a silver medal and booked qualification for the World Cup later this year. With momentum on their side, the upcoming camp will focus on refining combinations, elevating fitness standards, and sharpening tactical execution.
Structured Preparation Under New Leadership
The camp will also mark a key phase under the guidance of Sjoerd Marijne, who has returned to oversee the team’s preparations. His emphasis will be on building a squad capable of delivering consistent performances across high-pressure tournaments.
“We are entering a very competitive phase of the season. The focus will be on consistency, structure, and ensuring that players are ready both physically and mentally,” Marijne noted. His approach is expected to blend tactical clarity with high-intensity conditioning, aligning with modern international hockey demands.
Experienced Goalkeeping Unit
India’s goalkeeping department continues to be one of its strongest assets. The camp includes experienced names such as Savita Punia, alongside Madhuri Kindo, Bansari Solanki, and Bichu Devi Kharibam.

Bichu Devi’s inclusion gains added significance following her recent recognition as Goalkeeper of the Year at the Hockey India Annual Awards. The competition within this unit ensures both depth and high standards, crucial for tournaments where defensive solidity often determines outcomes.
Defensive Depth and Balance
The defensive line features a blend of experience and emerging talent. Veterans like Nikki Pradhan and Udita provide stability, while younger players such as Ishika Chaudhary, Jyoti Singh, Lalthantluangi, and Shilpi Dabas add depth and versatility.
This mix allows the coaching staff to experiment with combinations, particularly in building defensive structures that can withstand high-tempo attacking teams.
Midfield Core Led by Salima Tete
The midfield remains the engine room of the squad, led by captain Salima Tete. Alongside her, experienced campaigners like Sushila Chanu and Manisha Chauhan bring composure and control.
The inclusion of younger talents such as Sakshi Rana—recently named Upcoming Player of the Year—adds dynamism to the midfield unit. Players like Vaishnavi Phalke, Sunelita Toppo, and Neha further strengthen the group, offering flexibility in both defensive and attacking transitions.
Forward Line Packed with Firepower
India’s forward line reflects both experience and attacking depth. Navneet Kaur, the reigning Player of the Year, headlines the attacking unit, supported by established names like Lalremsiami and Mumtaz Khan.
Additional options such as Deepika, Baljeet Kaur, Beauty Dungdung, and Hina Bano provide multiple tactical combinations, allowing the team to adapt to different match situations. The presence of Sangita Kumari, currently in rehabilitation, also indicates long-term planning within the squad.
Focus Areas: Fitness, Structure, and Consistency
The nine-day camp is expected to emphasise three key pillars fitness, tactical structure, and consistency. With back-to-back international tournaments lined up, physical conditioning will be critical in managing workload and sustaining performance levels.
Equally important will be the development of cohesive playing structures, particularly in transitions and set-piece execution. India’s recent performances have shown promise, but consistency across matches remains an area of focus.
Road Ahead: High-Stakes Calendar
The timing of the camp is crucial, with the team preparing for a packed schedule. The FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup in June will serve as an important competitive platform, followed by the World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands in August.
The season will culminate with the Asian Games in September-October, a tournament where India will aim to challenge for top honours.
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The announcement of the 31-member core group signals the beginning of a critical phase in Indian women’s hockey. With a balanced squad, experienced leadership, and a clear roadmap, the team is positioning itself for a strong showing in 2026.
The upcoming camp at IIS will not only shape the final squad but also define the team’s approach heading into a season that could significantly influence India’s standing in international hockey.
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