Fresh off their historic gold-medal triumph at the Asian Games in Japan, the Indian women’s hockey team is back in action to defend another prestigious crown.
Midfielder Salima Tete has been appointed captain of a vibrant 20-member squad announced by Hockey India for the upcoming Madhya Pradesh Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Bhopal 2026.
The marquee event, running from November 19 to 28, will take place at the state-of-the-art International Sports Complex in Nathu Barkheda, Bhopal.
Key Squad Moves: Rested Stars and Fresh Roles
In a notable roster shift, veteran goalkeeper and Asian Games-winning captain Savita Punia has been rested for the home tournament. Taking charge between the posts will be the agile pairing of Bansari Solanki and Bichu Devi Kharibam.
Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne views the competition as a crucial testing ground for squad depth and tactical flexibility.
“This is the moment I want to give other players the chance to showcase their talent on the international stage. Some players will be playing in different positions than they normally do, so that I can see how they perform in a different role,” stated Marijne. “We are excited to play in front of the home crowd and finish the year well.”
India enters the tournament as defending champions, looking to break a tie with South Korea to become the sole four-time winners in Asian Champions Trophy history.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey emphasised the significance of maintaining competitive momentum on home soil:
“The Madhya Pradesh Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Bhopal 2026 is an important opportunity for our team to carry forward the momentum of their historic Asian Games triumph. Playing in front of home supporters will be a great motivation.”
Fixture Schedule & Road to the Final
The six-nation tournament features a round-robin league format, with the top four sides progressing to the knockout stage.
-
Nov 19: India vs. Malaysia (Opening Match)
-
Nov 21: India vs. South Korea
-
Nov 22: India vs. Thailand
-
Nov 24: India vs. China
-
Nov 25: India vs. Japan
-
Nov 27: Semi-Finals
-
Nov 28: 3rd Place Match & Final
Complete India Squad
-
Goalkeepers: Bansari Solanki, Bichu Devi Kharibam
-
Defenders: Nikki Pradhan, Jyoti, Jyoti Singh, Sushila Chanu Lalthantluangi, Pooja Sahoo
-
Midfielders: Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, Sunelita Toppo, Salima Tete (C), Neha, Sakshi Rana, Baljeet Kaur, Ishika
-
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Deepika, Beauty Dungdung, Lalremsiami, Mumtaz Khan
