New Delhi, Oct 28
Hockey India on Monday announced the restructured 18-member Indian women’s team squad for the eighth Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024. The tournament will be held from November 11 to 20 at the newly-developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar.
As defending champions, India enter the competition with high expectations, having clinched the title at last year’s edition in Ranchi. The team will face stiff competition from five other nations, including reigning Olympic silver medalists China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand in the battle for continental supremacy.
The Indian team will be captained by Salima Tete while Navneet Kaur will serve as her deputy.
The goalkeeping duties will be shared between experienced Savita and rising talent Bichu Devi Kharibam. The defense will be anchored by a solid line-up, featuring Udita, Jyoti, Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, and Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke.
In the midfield, captain Salima Tete will be supported by Neha, Sharmila Devi, Manisha Chauhan, Sunelita Toppo, and Lalremsiami, all known for their dynamic play. The forward line-up boasts firepower with Navneet Kaur, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, Preeti Dubey, and Beauty Dungdung leading the charge.
Notably, Sushila and Beauty Dungdung make their return to the team after successfully completing their rehabilitation.