Hockey India announced the 20-member Indian women’s squad for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, scheduled to be held in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14.
The tournament marks a significant chapter for the team, as it will be their first competitive assignment under returning chief coach Sjoerd Marijne, who resumed charge in January 2026.
Marijne replaces Harendra Singh and begins his second stint at the helm with immediate stakes. With India having missed direct qualification through the Asia Cup, the Hyderabad qualifiers represent a crucial opportunity to secure a place at the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026, to be held in August.
High Stakes in Hyderabad
Eight teams hosts India, England, Scotland, Korea, Italy, Uruguay, Wales, and Austria — will compete for three available World Cup qualification spots. The teams are divided into two pools. England, Korea, Italy, and Austria form Pool A, while India are grouped with Scotland, Uruguay, and Wales in Pool B.
India will open their campaign against Uruguay on March 8, followed by fixtures against Scotland on March 9 and Wales on March 11. The format leaves little margin for error, making early results decisive in shaping knockout qualification pathways.
Midfielder Salima Tete has been entrusted with the captaincy for the tournament. The leadership responsibility comes at an important phase in India’s Olympic cycle planning, with the Asian Games 2026 also on the horizon.
A New Coaching Phase
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Marijne emphasised preparation and clarity within the squad.
“We are really looking forward to our first tournament together. We have been working on the fitness and the tactics, so everybody understands their tasks and role in the team. We will play two practice matches in Hyderabad to be fully ready for the matches ahead,” he said.
The Dutch coach’s return brings familiarity with Indian hockey structures, and the qualifiers will serve as an early indicator of tactical direction under his renewed tenure.
Squad Composition
The selected squad blends experienced internationals with emerging players across departments.
In goal, Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam form the two-member goalkeeping unit. Both will be tasked with providing stability in high-pressure matches where defensive organisation will be critical. The defensive line includes Sushila Chanu, Nikki Pradhan, Manisha Chauhan, Udita, and Ishika Chaudhary. The presence of experienced defenders such as Sushila and Nikki adds composure to a backline expected to face structured European and Asian attacking systems.
The midfield unit, led by captain Salima Tete, comprises Neha, Sunelita Toppo, Sakshi Rana, Vaishnavi Phalke, Rutaja Pisal, and Deepika Soreng. The midfield will carry dual responsibility maintaining defensive shape while supporting attacking transitions.
Up front, the forward line features Navneet Kaur, Ishika, Lalremsiami, Beauty Dungdung, Baljeet Kaur, and Annu. The mix of pace and finishing ability within this group will be central to India’s ability to convert circle entries into goals during tight contests.
Qualification Imperative
Having failed to secure qualification via the Asia Cup, India now face a direct challenge in front of home supporters. Hosting the qualifiers in Hyderabad offers familiarity with conditions, but also brings expectations. The structure of the competition with only three qualification spots available from eight teams intensifies the stakes. Pool performances will determine semifinal matchups, and margins in goal difference could prove decisive.
The presence of England and Korea in the other pool underscores the competitive landscape. While India’s immediate focus lies within Pool B, crossover scenarios could bring matchups against higher-ranked opponents in knockout rounds.
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The qualifiers not only determine World Cup participation but also serve as a benchmark in India’s preparation cycle for upcoming major events, including the Asian Games 2026.
With Marijne’s return signalling a fresh tactical phase and Salima Tete stepping into leadership, the Hyderabad tournament becomes more than just a qualification event it is a defining test of transition, cohesion, and execution under renewed guidance.
India’s campaign begins on March 8 against Uruguay, with consecutive fixtures demanding quick recovery and tactical discipline. As the team aims to secure one of the three coveted spots for Belgium & Netherlands 2026, the coming week in Hyderabad will play a decisive role in shaping their immediate international trajectory.
