New Delhi: Hockey India unveiled the roster for the Indian Women’s Hockey Team set to participate in the Bhubaneswar and Rourkela legs of the FIH Pro League 2023-24. The announcement, made on Saturday, revealed a formidable 24-member squad ready to showcase their prowess in the upcoming international competition.
The FIH Pro League 2023-24 is scheduled to kick off with the Bhubaneswar leg from 3rd to 9th February, followed by the Rourkela leg commencing on 12th February and concluding on 18th February. During this period, India will play host to formidable teams from the United States, the Netherlands, China, and Australia, facing each of them twice across both legs.
Leading the charge for India will be the experienced goalkeeper Savita, who has been appointed as the Captain for the FIH Pro League 2023-24. Serving as the Vice Captain will be veteran forward Vandana Katariya, adding a wealth of experience to the team’s leadership.
The squad includes goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam, with defenders Gurjit Kaur, Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, Monika, and Jyoti Chhatri forming a solid defensive unit. The midfield will be commanded by Nisha, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Salima Tete, Sonika, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, and Sunelita Toppo. The forward line comprises Mumtaz Khan, Beauty Dungdung, Lalremsiami, Sangita Kumari, Deepika, Vandana Katariya, and Sharmila Devi.
Commenting on the squad selection, the Chief Coach of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team, Janneke Schopman, stated, “We have a few youngsters coming in for the FIH Pro League 2023-24. The league is of immense importance to us as the champions will secure their spot in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. We will look to build upon the team chemistry, and the squad is looking forward to facing some of the best teams in the world, in our backyard. The aim will be to begin our campaign on a strong note and continue to improve during the League.”
With the stage set for an intense competition, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team is poised to leave a lasting impression in the FIH Pro League, striving to secure their place in the prestigious FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.
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