Salima Tete has been named captain of the 18-member Indian women’s hockey team announced on Monday for the Asian Champions Cup to be held from November 11 to 20 at the newly built Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar. Navneet Kaur will be Tete’s deputy. India enters the competition with high expectations having won the title at last year’s edition in Ranchi. In the battle for continental supremacy, the team will face stiff competition from five other countries, including reigning Olympic silver medalists China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand.
India will begin its campaign against Malaysia on November 11.
Speaking about the team’s selection and preparation for the tournament, dynamic midfielder Tete said: “It’s an incredible feeling to lead the team to another major tournament, especially as defending champions.
“We have trained thoroughly and we have a strong team made up of both experienced players and young talent. Our goal is to defend our title and play with the same passion and determination we showed last year.” Goalkeeping duties will be shared between the experienced Savita and the rising talent Bichu Devi Haribam.
The defense will rely on a strong line-up that includes Udita, Jyoti, Ishika Chaudhary, Susheela Chanu Puhrambam and Vaishnavi Vittal Phalke.
In midfield, Captain Tete will be supported by Neha, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo and Lalremsiami, known for their dynamic play.
The forward boasts firepower with Navneet Kaur, Sangeeta Kumari, Deepika, Preeti Dubey and Beauty Dungdung leading the attack.
Notably, Sushila and Beauty Dungdung are returning to the team after successfully completing their rehabilitation.
“We are confident in our preparation and the chemistry we have created within the team. Playing in front of a home crowd is a huge boost and we are ready for tough competition from the best teams in Asia,” Vice-Captain Navneet. said.
“Working alongside Salima has been great and we are determined to make this tournament a memorable one,” she added.
India: Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Haribam.
Defenders: Udita, Jyoti, Vaishnavi Vittal Phalke, Sushila Chanu Puhrambam, Ishika Chaudhary.
Midfielders: Neha, Salima Tete, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, Lalremsiami.
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Preeti Dubey, Sangeeta Kumari, Deepika, Dungdung Beauty.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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