Nausheen Naz emerging as player to watch
At just 15, Nausheen Naz has built a scoring record at the Sub Junior Nationals that demands attention. Representing Madhya Pradesh, she has delivered consistent returns over three consecutive editions, showing both output and evolution in her game.
Her numbers across the last three years highlight that progression from 8 field goals in 2024 she scored 6 field goals + 2 penalty corners in the next year while this year she has scored 5 field goals + 4 penalty corners.
The shift is not just in volume but in variety. From being a pure field-goal scorer in 2024, she has gradually added penalty corner conversion to her skillset. That transition is a key indicator of development at the junior level, especially for forwards looking to move into higher levels of competition.
In 2024, Nausheen’s scoring was entirely based on field goals. That suggested strong instincts inside the circle, good positioning, and the ability to capitalise in open play. These are often early indicators of a natural striker. By 2025, she began contributing from set-pieces. Two penalty corner goals added a new dimension to her game. In 2026, that number doubled to four, showing clear improvement in execution and confidence.
This evolution matters because modern hockey increasingly relies on set-piece efficiency. For a forward to contribute in both open play and penalty corners adds tactical value and increases selection prospects at higher levels.
What stands out is her consistency rather than a one-off performance. Across three seasons, her total goal output has remained high 8 goals in 2024. 8 goals in 2025 & 9 goals in 2026 Maintaining that level across different tournaments and conditions indicates reliability. It also suggests that her performance is not dependent on a single factor such as opposition level or specific match situations.
In 2026, she finished as one of the top performers of the tournament, further strengthening her position within the junior circuit.
Nausheen’s performances are part of a larger trend. Madhya Pradesh has emerged as one of the stronger units in junior women’s hockey, consistently producing competitive teams at the national level.
Her contributions have been central to that rise. In high-scoring matches, she has been a primary finisher, while in tighter contests, she has still found ways to influence outcomes. Operating within a competitive state setup also helps in development. Regular exposure to high-pressure matches at the national level ensures that players adapt early to structured play.
Her development has been supported by training environments in Gwalior and Bhopal, where she has had access to structured coaching and facilities. The focus has been on improving technical areas such as first touch, ball control, and positioning inside the circle. There has also been a clear emphasis on expanding her role within the team structure. Moving from a pure goal scorer to a more involved forward who can contribute across phases of play is a key step at this stage of development.
Australia Series: Next Step
Nausheen is now part of the Indian U18 setup preparing for the upcoming Test series against Australia. This will be a significant step up in terms of intensity, pace, and physicality. At the Sub Junior level, she has shown the ability to dominate matches. The challenge now is to adapt to international standards, where defensive structures are more organised and space is limited.
The Australia series will test her ability to handle high pressing systems, decision-making under pressure& consistency against stronger opposition
It also provides a reference point for selectors to assess readiness for major tournaments like the U18 Asia Cup.
While her scoring record is strong, the next phase of development will focus on: decision-making in tight spaces, contribution to team structure beyond finishing, physical conditioning for international matches & defensive work rate as part of modern forward roles
These aspects will determine how effectively she transitions to higher levels.
Nausheen Naz’s numbers at the Sub Junior Nationals reflect both consistency and growth. The addition of penalty corner goals to her game shows technical development, while her sustained scoring output indicates reliability. At 15, she has already established herself as a key player within her age group. The upcoming international exposure, particularly against Australia, will provide a clearer picture of her readiness for the next level.
For now, her trajectory places her firmly among the players to watch in Indian women’s hockey.
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