Hockey Asian Champions Trophy: India look to defend title on home soil

Having struggled to win matches the entire year, the Indian women’s hockey team will look to start afresh in a new Olympics cycle by defending its Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) title at home, beginning with a clash against lower-ranked Malaysia here on Monday. India have won the title twice, in 2016 (Singapore) and 2023 (Ranchi), in the seven editions of the tournament so far.

After failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics, the Indian team lost 13 matches and won just two (with one draw) out of 16 in the women’s FIH Pro League this year, but will hope to make a turnaround in their fortune with a strong performance in the ACT.

India have fielded a mixed team, consisting of youth and experienced players for the tournament under the leadership of Salima Tete. Striker Navneet Kaur will serve as Salima’s deputy as India enter the competition with high expectations.

The team will face stiff competition from five other nations, including Olympics silver-medallists China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand, in the battle for continental supremacy.

The Indian defence will be anchored by a solid line-up, featuring Udita, Jyoti, Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke.

In the mid-field, captain Tete will be supported by Neha, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, and Lalremsiami, all known for their dynamic play.

The forward line-up has the likes of Navneet, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, Preeti Dubey and Beauty Dungdung leading the charge.

The goalkeeping duties will be shared between the experienced Savita — also former captain — and rising talent Bichu Devi Kharibam.

Sushila and Beauty Dungdung will be making a return to the team.